1955 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1971 Holden Monaro
To start off, 1971 Holden Monaro is newer by 16 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 5,040 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Holden Monaro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Holden Monaro (238 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Holden Monaro should accelerate faster than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 170 kg more than 1971 Holden Monaro.
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 1971 Holden Monaro has manual transmission. 1971 Holden Monaro 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 | 1971 Holden Monaro | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Holden |
| Model | Bel Air | Monaro |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 5040 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2830 mm |
