1955 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1951 Chrysler New Yorker
To start off, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Chrysler New Yorker. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Chrysler New Yorker would be higher. At 5,421 cc (8 cylinders), 1951 Chrysler New Yorker is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1951 Chrysler New Yorker (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1951 Chrysler New Yorker should accelerate faster than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Chrysler New Yorker weights approximately 355 kg more than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air | 1951 Chrysler New Yorker | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Bel Air | New Yorker |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1951 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 5421 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 3190 mm |
