2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 31 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 399 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, 2005 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, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Malibu | Elite |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1459 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 | 63 L | 67 L |
