1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 77 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 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, 2012 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
Model | Malibu | Optima |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 252 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1462 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2797 mm |