2005 Kia Optima vs. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (187 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 63 kg more than 2005 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, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (244 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2013 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Kia | Chevrolet |
| Model | Optima | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 101 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2738 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.8 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
