1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
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 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2009 Kia Optima | |
Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
Model | Malibu | Optima |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2359 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2730 mm |