2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 390 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | A |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3722 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.6 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 54 L |
