2008 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 1330 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. 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 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet HHR | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | HHR | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 59 L |
