1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 448 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 704 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 747 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Malibu | SL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 604 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 998 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 2110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2040 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 80 L |