1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1974 Maserati Merak
To start off, 1974 Maserati Merak is newer by 18 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, 1974 Maserati Merak (187 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Maserati Merak 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 234 kg more than 1974 Maserati Merak.
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 1974 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1974 Maserati Merak 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 | 1974 Maserati Merak | |
Make | Chevrolet | Maserati |
Model | Bel Air | Merak |
Year Released | 1956 | 1974 |
Engine Size | 4343 cc | 2965 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 187 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1320 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2610 mm |