I have a panasonic chain drive on my Giant Twist.
We also have a Heinzmann equipped Biria (front hub).

The motor on the twist is a 350w the Heinzmann is a 400.
The Heinzmann has a higher top speed, but the panasonic has a governor that cuts the motor at 16-17 mph.
The difference in torque is astounding. The chain drive is vastly better than the hub motor.

Given the choice I will always pick a chain drive over a hub motor.
The disadvantage to inline drives is motor placement can be difficult.


The Twist/Lite


The Estelle (a Biria rebranded by Heinzmann after they added the hub)