1955 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2003 Chevrolet Prizm
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm is newer by 48 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 25 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 460 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm, 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 2003 Chevrolet Prizm has manual transmission. 2003 Chevrolet Prizm 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 | 2003 Chevrolet Prizm | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Bel Air | Prizm |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2470 mm |
