2007 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 258 more horse power than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 394 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | CLS |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2875 mm |
