2008 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1981 Pontiac Firebird 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 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 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 (353 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 1981 Pontiac Firebird 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. 1981 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet HHR | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | HHR | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 256 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 79 L |
