1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1973 Chrysler Charger
To start off, 1973 Chrysler Charger is newer by 17 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 5,211 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Charger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Chrysler Charger (227 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Chrysler Charger 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 174 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Charger.
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 | 1973 Chrysler Charger | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Bel Air | Charger |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 5211 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2680 mm |
