2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2004 Lotus Esprit is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,507 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2004 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 2004 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2004 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm). This means 2004 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 2004 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2004 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Malibu | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2430 mm |
