2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL (536 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 402 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 910 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL (799 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 614 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | CL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 536 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 799 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 5105 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2954 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 90 L |
