2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS

To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 241 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Chevrolet Malibu 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS
Make Chevrolet Mercedes-Benz
Model Malibu CLS
Year Released 2003 2006
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3500 cc 4965 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 200 HP 302 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 298 Nm 460 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 94 mm 97 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 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1569 kg 1810 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4920 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2850 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 62 L 89 L