2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Ford Kuga
To start off, 2012 Ford Kuga is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2012 Ford Kuga. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Kuga. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Kuga weights approximately 45 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2012 Ford Kuga is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Kuga will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Ford Kuga (320 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm). This means 2012 Ford Kuga will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Ford Kuga | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Kuga |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 53 L |
