1948 Austin 16 vs. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Austin 16. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Austin 16 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 85 more horse power than 1948 Austin 16. (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1948 Austin 16. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 274 kg more than 1948 Austin 16. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air has automatic transmission and 1948 Austin 16 has manual transmission. 1948 Austin 16 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1948 Austin 16 | 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
Make | Austin | Chevrolet |
Model | 16 | Bel Air |
Year Released | 1948 | 1956 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2198 cc | 4343 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 63 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1554 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2930 mm |