1955 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1981 Vauxhall Cavalier
To start off, 1981 Vauxhall Cavalier 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 4,343 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 655 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Cavalier.
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 1981 Vauxhall Cavalier has manual transmission. 1981 Vauxhall Cavalier 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 | 1981 Vauxhall Cavalier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Vauxhall |
| Model | Bel Air | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 1256 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2530 mm |
