1999 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 163 kg more than 1999 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, 1999 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 1999 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chevrolet Malibu | 2004 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Malibu | Optima |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 100 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 | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 65 L |
