1994 Lotus Elan vs. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Lotus Elan 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 (170 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1994 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1994 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 529 kg more than 1994 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu (214 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2010 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Lotus Elan. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1994 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1994 Lotus Elan 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:
| 1994 Lotus Elan | 2010 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
| Model | Elan | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2852 mm |
