1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2005 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2005 Lotus Esprit is newer by 9 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 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Esprit (349 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 5 kg more than 2005 Lotus Esprit.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lotus Esprit. 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, 2005 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2005 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 2005 Lotus Esprit 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 | 2005 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Malibu | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2430 mm |
