1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 29 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 3,869 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323.
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, 1985 Mazda 323, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air (278 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Bel Air | 323 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3869 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
