2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2005 Kia Optima
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Malibu 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 62 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 81 kg more than 2005 Kia Optima. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2005 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Malibu | Optima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
