1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260.
Because 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260. 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 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
Model | 260 | Malibu |
Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2599 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 252 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 340 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
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 | 2940 mm | 2852 mm |