1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2003 Proton 400
To start off, 2003 Proton 400 is newer by 47 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, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2003 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 564 kg more than 2003 Proton 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Proton 400, 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 2003 Proton 400 has manual transmission. 2003 Proton 400 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 | 2003 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Proton |
| Model | Bel Air | 400 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2510 mm |
