2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Kia Optima would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 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, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (340 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 2004 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Malibu | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |
