2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 66 L |
