2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2005 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, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (219 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2005 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2005 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Hyundai | Chevrolet |
| Model | Sonata | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2358 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 61 L |
