1957 Lotus Seven vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1957 Lotus Seven. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus Seven.
Because 1957 Lotus Seven is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1957 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Lotus Seven. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Lotus Seven. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1957 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1957 Lotus Seven 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:
| 1957 Lotus Seven | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
| Model | Seven | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 61 L |
