1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 53 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, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima 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 477 kg more than 2009 Nissan Altima.
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, 2009 Nissan Altima, 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 | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Bel Air | Altima |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2780 mm |
