2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (170 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 114 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | 230 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2305 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |
