1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (225 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (169 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | 450 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4519 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 378 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 61 L |
