2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 375 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Chevrolet Malibu (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1974 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1974 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Malibu | Elite |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 67 L |
