1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 154 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | 280 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 90 L |
