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 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet HHR (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
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, 2009 Chevrolet HHR (353 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
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 | 1997 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2440 mm |
