2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Chevrolet HHR
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2011 Chevrolet HHR. (155 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Chevrolet HHR. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 39 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2004 Mazda RX-8 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Chevrolet HHR. (203 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Chevrolet HHR.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2011 Chevrolet HHR | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | RX-8 | HHR |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2200 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1431 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4475 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1603 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2629 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 61 L |
