2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (94 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 195 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 SLK (271 Nm) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2005 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 54 L |
