1988 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (261 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (252 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (405 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
Model | S | Malibu |
Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4973 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 261 HP | 252 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 405 Nm | 340 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4872 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2852 mm |