2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (160 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 69 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (224 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 82 L |
