1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1999 Lotus M250
To start off, 1999 Lotus M250 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lotus M250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus M250 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus M250 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 435 kg more than 1999 Lotus M250.
Because 1999 Lotus M250 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 1999 Lotus M250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1999 Lotus M250 (321 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1999 Lotus M250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1999 Lotus M250 has manual transmission. 1999 Lotus M250 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1999 Lotus M250 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Malibu | M250 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1180 mm |
