2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 436 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 916 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 2010 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 2010 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (999 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 742 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 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 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3165 mm |
