2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 has manual transmission. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | 240 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |
