2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | S | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 61 L |
