2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 96 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. (104 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 155 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. 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 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. (164 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | 200 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 80.3 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 | 1495 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
