2001 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 420 kg more than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (422 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chevrolet Malibu | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 5547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 422 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2950 mm |
