1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 5,461 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R. 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 R (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | R |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 5461 cc |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 80 L |
