2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1982 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lotus Esprit 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 6 more horse power than 1982 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1982 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1982 Lotus Esprit 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 1982 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1982 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1982 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1982 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1982 Lotus Esprit 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 | 1982 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Malibu | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 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 | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 31 L |
