2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 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 3,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 279 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (141 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3501 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 54 L |
