2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1980 Lotus Eclat
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 28 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 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 4 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Eclat. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Eclat.
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, 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, 1980 Lotus Eclat (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Eclat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. 2008 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. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 1980 Lotus Eclat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Malibu | Eclat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 67 L |
