1998 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (149 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 468 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Malibu | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1854 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 88 L |
