1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 725 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Lotus Elite 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1962 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1962 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Malibu | Elite |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 66.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2240 mm |
