1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2008 Jeep Compass
To start off, 2008 Jeep Compass is newer by 52 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, 2008 Jeep Compass (172 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Jeep Compass should accelerate faster than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Jeep Compass weights approximately 275 kg more than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Jeep Compass is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Jeep Compass will offer significantly more control. 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 2008 Jeep Compass has manual transmission. 2008 Jeep Compass 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 | 2008 Jeep Compass | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Jeep |
| Model | Bel Air | Compass |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 2358 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1829 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2640 mm |
