2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 306 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 88 L |
