2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,305 cc (6 cylinders), 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1532 kg more than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1965 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 1965 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, 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 2305 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2832 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
