2008 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,186 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (111 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 504 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet HHR.
Because 1982 Ford Thunderbird 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 1982 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (264 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet HHR. (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet HHR. 1982 Ford Thunderbird 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. 1982 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet HHR | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | HHR | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 4186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1073 kg | 1577 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
