2008 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (149 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (118 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 445 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet HHR.
Because 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE 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 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet HHR | 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | HHR | SE |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 2193 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |
