2000 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2000 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Chevrolet Malibu (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2000 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2000 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Chevrolet Malibu | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | 280 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2460 mm |
