2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 1 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 139 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 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 30 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.2 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
