2007 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2007 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
