1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 320 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 70 L |
