1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 323 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Bel Air | Passat |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 3597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2720 mm |
