2011 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 376 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 645 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | SL |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
