1942 Buick 40 vs. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,343 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1942 Buick 40. (114 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1942 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 Buick 40 weights approximately 36 kg more than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1942 Buick 40 | 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
| Make | Buick | Chevrolet |
| Model | 40 | Bel Air |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 4343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1554 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2930 mm |
