1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 155 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (240 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | CLK |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2720 mm |
