2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 15 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (365 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | CLS |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
