2006 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet HHR (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 Lotus Elan 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Chevrolet HHR (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 2006 Chevrolet HHR has automatic transmission and 1969 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1969 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet HHR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet HHR | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | HHR | Elan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
