1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1966 Mini MK I
To start off, 1966 Mini MK I is newer by 10 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 3,869 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1966 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1966 Mini MK I.
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, 1966 Mini MK I, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air (278 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mini MK I. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | 1966 Mini MK I | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mini |
| Model | Bel Air | MK I |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3869 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2040 mm |
