2007 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1998 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 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 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 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| 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 | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
