1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 16 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (136 HP @ 2800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (360 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 66 L |
