1998 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2005 Kia Optima
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (149 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 101 kg more than 1998 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, 2005 Kia Optima (241 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Malibu | 2005 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Malibu | Optima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 65 L |
