2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 65 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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 (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (185 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | CLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 69 L |
