1956 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 56 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air.
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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Bel Air | S |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 3165 mm |
