1955 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1981 Dodge Mirada
To start off, 1981 Dodge Mirada is newer by 26 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 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Dodge Mirada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1981 Dodge Mirada. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1981 Dodge Mirada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Dodge Mirada weights approximately 150 kg more than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air.
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 | 1981 Dodge Mirada | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Bel Air | Mirada |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 5210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2870 mm |
