1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 13 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 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1445 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (401 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2860 mm |
