1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1938 Buick Century
To start off, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1938 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1938 Buick Century would be higher. At 5,247 cc (8 cylinders), 1938 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1938 Buick Century (165 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1938 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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:
| 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | 1938 Buick Century | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Buick |
| Model | Bel Air | Century |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1938 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3869 cc | 5247 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.5 mm | 86.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 108.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
