2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (305 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | CLS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 4880 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
