2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2007 Kia Optima
To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2007 Kia Optima. (162 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2007 Kia Optima.
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, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Optima. (222 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 2007 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Malibu | Optima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
