2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elise 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 @ 5600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elise. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 790 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Lotus Elise 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 1996 Lotus Elise. 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 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1996 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Malibu | Elise |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 13.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |
