2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,961 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 515 kg more than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (272 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2033 cc | 2961 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2205 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
