2006 Chevrolet HHR vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Chevrolet HHR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Chevrolet HHR would be higher. At 2,194 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet HHR (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2006 Chevrolet HHR has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | HHR | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2194 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 48 L |
