2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 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 36 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 16 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1990 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 1990 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 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1990 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1990 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 164 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 82.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2950 mm |
