1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1962 Volkswagen 1500
To start off, 1962 Volkswagen 1500 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air would be higher. At 4,343 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen 1500. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 624 kg more than 1962 Volkswagen 1500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 | 1962 Volkswagen 1500 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Bel Air | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 1491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2430 mm |
