1963 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan.
Because 1963 Lotus Elan 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 1963 Lotus Elan. 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 (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Lotus Elan. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1963 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1963 Lotus Elan 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:
1963 Lotus Elan | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
Model | Elan | Malibu |
Year Released | 1963 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 169 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 138 Nm | 217 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
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 | 3700 mm | 4872 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2852 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |