1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 440 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Malibu | SL |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 269 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 92.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1825 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |