2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (136 HP @ 2600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 166 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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 E (360 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1735 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
