2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,985 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 5985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 100 L |
