1955 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 31 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 16 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (132 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 470 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. 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, 1986 Ford Escort, 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. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort 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 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Bel Air | Escort |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 1608 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2410 mm |
