2004 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2004 Hyundai Sonata. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Hyundai Sonata.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (340 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Hyundai Sonata. (199 Nm). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Hyundai | Chevrolet |
| Model | Sonata | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2343 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
