2009 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1989 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet HHR. (172 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet HHR.
Because 1989 Lotus Esprit 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 1989 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1989 Lotus Esprit (353 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet HHR. (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet HHR. 2009 Chevrolet HHR has automatic transmission and 1989 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1989 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet HHR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet HHR | 1989 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | HHR | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 31 L |
