1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1971 Holden Statesman
To start off, 1971 Holden Statesman is newer by 15 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Holden Statesman (272 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 54 kg more than 1971 Holden Statesman.
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. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air has automatic transmission and 1971 Holden Statesman has manual transmission. 1971 Holden Statesman 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 | 1971 Holden Statesman | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Holden |
| Model | Bel Air | Statesman |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 272 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2900 mm |
