2001 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (232 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 575 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 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3040 mm |
