2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 241 kg more than 1989 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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1989 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1989 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Malibu | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2397 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |
