1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 15 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 11 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima.
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, 2011 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 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 2011 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2011 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 | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Malibu | Optima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 70 L |
