1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1981 Pontiac Phoenix
To start off, 1981 Pontiac Phoenix 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 404 kg more than 1981 Pontiac Phoenix.
Because 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Phoenix, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Pontiac Phoenix has manual transmission. 1981 Pontiac Phoenix 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 Pontiac Phoenix | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Bel Air | Phoenix |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 2474 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 | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2670 mm |
