2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Because 1968 Lotus Elan 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Malibu | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
