2009 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1982 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet HHR (172 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1982 Pontiac Firebird. (168 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1982 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1982 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 1982 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, 1982 Pontiac Firebird (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet HHR. (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1982 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 | 1982 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | HHR | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 4997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| 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 | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
