2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima 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 (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 55 kg more than 2012 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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Malibu | Optima |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.4 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |
