1981 Alpine A 310 vs. 2009 Chevrolet HHR
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Alpine A 310. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Alpine A 310 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Alpine A 310 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet HHR (155 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1981 Alpine A 310. (150 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1981 Alpine A 310. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 569 kg more than 1981 Alpine A 310. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Alpine A 310 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 1981 Alpine A 310. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet HHR, 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, both vehicles can yield 203 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Chevrolet HHR has automatic transmission and 1981 Alpine A 310 has manual transmission. 1981 Alpine A 310 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet HHR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Alpine A 310 | 2009 Chevrolet HHR | |
| Make | Alpine | Chevrolet |
| Model | A 310 | HHR |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 61 L |
