1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 388 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
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, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan 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 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Malibu | Elan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2260 mm |
