2009 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet HHR (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 270 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (222 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet HHR | 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | HHR | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 57 L |
