2008 Chevrolet HHR vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet HHR. (149 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet HHR. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 355 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet HHR. (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet HHR. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet HHR | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | HHR | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2201 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2570 mm |
