2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Kia Retona
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Kia Retona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Kia Retona would be higher. At 2,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1997 Kia Retona. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Kia Retona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Kia Retona weights approximately 609 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1997 Kia Retona is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Kia Retona will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Kia Retona. (206 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Kia Retona. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1997 Kia Retona has manual transmission. 1997 Kia Retona will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Kia Retona | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Malibu | Retona |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2397 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2370 mm |
