2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS (563 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 482 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 295 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS 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 SLS. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS (649 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 469 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | SLS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 563 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1621 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1938 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 85 L |
