1955 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1961 MG MGA
To start off, 1961 MG MGA is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air would be higher. At 4,343 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1961 MG MGA. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1961 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 650 kg more than 1961 MG MGA. 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. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air has automatic transmission and 1961 MG MGA has manual transmission. 1961 MG MGA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air | 1961 MG MGA | |
| Make | Chevrolet | MG |
| Model | Bel Air | MGA |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2390 mm |
