2009 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet HHR. (155 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet HHR.
Because 1979 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 1979 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet HHR. (203 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet HHR.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet HHR | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | HHR | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 76 L |
