1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2001 Volvo S80
To start off, 2001 Volvo S80 is newer by 45 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 20 more horse power than 2001 Volvo S80. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 2001 Volvo S80.
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, 2001 Volvo S80, 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, 2001 Volvo S80 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. (278 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2001 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | 2001 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Bel Air | S80 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3869 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 80 L |
