2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1990 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1990 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1990 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 730 kg more than 1990 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Lotus Elan. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1990 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1990 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1990 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Malibu | Elan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2260 mm |
