1998 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1974 Lotus Eclat
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Eclat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Eclat would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Eclat (160 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (149 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Eclat should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 280 kg more than 1974 Lotus Eclat.
Because 1974 Lotus Eclat 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 1974 Lotus Eclat. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Eclat. (190 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Eclat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Malibu | 1974 Lotus Eclat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Malibu | Eclat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1106 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 67 L |
