2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 51 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230. (179 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | 230 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2308 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1518 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 3400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 64 L |
