1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 55 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 3,869 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
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, 2011 Opel Astra, 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. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. (278 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air.
Compare all specifications:
1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | 2011 Opel Astra | |
Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
Model | Bel Air | Astra |
Year Released | 1956 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3869 cc | 1910 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 278 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90.5 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 90.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 17.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 52 L |