2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1980 Lotus Eclat
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Eclat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Eclat would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Eclat. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Eclat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 400 kg more than 1980 Lotus Eclat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lotus Eclat. 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 (298 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Eclat. (217 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Eclat. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1980 Lotus Eclat has manual transmission. 1980 Lotus Eclat 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 | 1980 Lotus Eclat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Malibu | Eclat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1104 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 67 L |
