1998 BMW 317 vs. 2009 Chevrolet HHR
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet HHR (155 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 89 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet HHR.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 1998 BMW 317. 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, 2009 Chevrolet HHR (203 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2009 Chevrolet HHR | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 317 | HHR |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2640 mm |
