2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 200 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 53 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 has manual transmission. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Malibu | 350 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3499 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 286 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 65.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1548 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |