2001 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Kia Soul
To start off, 2012 Kia Soul is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2012 Kia Soul. (164 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Soul. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 152 kg more than 2012 Kia Soul. 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, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Soul. (200 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2001 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Soul. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2012 Kia Soul has manual transmission. 2012 Kia Soul will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Kia Soul | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Malibu | Soul |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1228 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2550 mm |
