2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (156 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C. 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 (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 Length | 4790 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 66 L |
