2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP) has 86 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 711 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 2215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2870 mm |
