1955 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1973 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1973 GMC Suburban is newer by 18 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 GMC Suburban (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 GMC Suburban weights approximately 750 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.
Because 1973 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 GMC Suburban will offer significantly more control. 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 | 1973 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Chevrolet | GMC |
| Model | Bel Air | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 2300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 3300 mm |
