1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 12 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 4,662 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 160 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | GL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 4662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3080 mm |
