2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (302 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1170 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 GL 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 443 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 GL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | GL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3080 mm |
