2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 10 kg more than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
