1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu

To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 147 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Mercedes-Benz C 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
Make Mercedes-Benz Chevrolet
Model C Malibu
Year Released 1996 2012
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1797 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 120 HP 169 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 217 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1410 kg 1557 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4872 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1786 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2852 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 62 L 61 L


 

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