2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 201 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | SLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| 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 | 201 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
