1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 48 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 20 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 42 kg more than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air.
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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Bel Air | Passat |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2520 mm |
