2007 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 374 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chevrolet Malibu | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
