1962 Mercedes-Benz SE vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. (118 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Because 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE 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 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 Chevrolet Malibu (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE has manual transmission. 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | SE | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2195 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 61 L |
