2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (415 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 334 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 284 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (539 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 359 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 415 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15 seconds | 4.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1793 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
