2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Kia Potentia
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Kia Potentia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Kia Potentia would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1997 Kia Potentia. (174 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Kia Potentia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 84 kg more than 1997 Kia Potentia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Kia Potentia is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Kia Potentia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Kia Potentia. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Kia Potentia. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1997 Kia Potentia has manual transmission. 1997 Kia Potentia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Kia Potentia | |
Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
Model | Malibu | Potentia |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 174 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 186 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1485 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2720 mm |