1981 BMW 520 vs. 2007 Chevrolet HHR
To start off, 2007 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chevrolet HHR (149 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520.
Because 1981 BMW 520 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 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Chevrolet HHR (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2007 Chevrolet HHR | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 520 | HHR |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
