2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 141 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Malibu | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2397 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 54 L |
