1955 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1985 Nissan Santana
To start off, 1985 Nissan Santana is newer by 30 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 55 more horse power than 1985 Nissan Santana. (93 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1985 Nissan Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 476 kg more than 1985 Nissan Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Nissan Santana, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 | 1985 Nissan Santana | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Bel Air | Santana |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1985 |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1074 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2560 mm |
