1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2008 Chevrolet HHR
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (172 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 276 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2008 Chevrolet HHR | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cavalier | HHR |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 61 L |
