2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 405 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 96 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm) has 703 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 5982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 605 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
