1955 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 51 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 8 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 396 kg more than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air.
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, 2006 Saturn ION, 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 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
| Model | Bel Air | ION |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1946 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2630 mm |
