1955 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 39 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 33 more horse power than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 411 kg more than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 | 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Bel Air | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1955 | 1994 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4343 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1139 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2520 mm |