1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1956 DKW Universal
To start off, both 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air and 1956 DKW Universal were released in the same year (1956). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 4,343 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 629 kg more than 1956 DKW Universal.
Because 1956 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 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 DKW Universal, 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. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air has automatic transmission and 1956 DKW Universal has manual transmission. 1956 DKW Universal will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | 1956 DKW Universal | |
| Make | Chevrolet | DKW |
| Model | Bel Air | Universal |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2460 mm |
