1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 410 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 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Malibu | S |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 4964 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 249 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 88 L |