1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 17 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (237 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1049 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (617 Nm) has 366 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | GL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | electric |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 617 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 2455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 3075 mm |
