1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1979 Lotus Esprit 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 1979 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, both vehicles can yield 217 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1979 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1979 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Esprit | 2010 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
| Model | Esprit | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 169 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2852 mm |
