1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1981 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 25 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 214 kg more than 1981 Mercedes-Benz E.
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 1981 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 1981 Mercedes-Benz E 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 | 1981 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Bel Air | E |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2800 mm |
