2008 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1973 Chevrolet Vega
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (149 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 1195 kg more than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chevrolet Vega 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 1973 Chevrolet Vega. 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 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. 1973 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 2008 Chevrolet HHR has manual transmission. 2008 Chevrolet HHR will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet HHR | 1973 Chevrolet Vega | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | HHR | Vega |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2201 cc | 2287 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 42 L |
