2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 290 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 SLK 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 SLK. 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 SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
