2007 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Forte (156 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu.
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, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Forte. (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2007 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Forte. 2007 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2012 Kia Forte has manual transmission. 2012 Kia Forte will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Malibu | Forte |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4481 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2649 mm |
