2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 320 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (190 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 740 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 550 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.5 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2045 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.3 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 54 L |
