1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 49 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 169 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Bel Air | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2680 mm |
