2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 925 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2012 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | A |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |