2003 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,798 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 790 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz A | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 80 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 130 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |