1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1972 Matra-Simca M530
To start off, 1972 Matra-Simca M530 is newer by 16 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 77 more horse power than 1972 Matra-Simca M530. (71 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1972 Matra-Simca M530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 619 kg more than 1972 Matra-Simca M530. 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. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air has automatic transmission and 1972 Matra-Simca M530 has manual transmission. 1972 Matra-Simca M530 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 | 1972 Matra-Simca M530 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Bel Air | M530 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1972 |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2570 mm |
