2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz G 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 75 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 311 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1988 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G 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 | 1988 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | G |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2410 mm |
