1955 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 57 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 488 kg more than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan, 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Bel Air | Routan |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 2038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 3078 mm |
