1972 Austin Allegro vs. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1972 Austin Allegro is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air would be higher. At 4,343 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1972 Austin Allegro. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1972 Austin Allegro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 680 kg more than 1972 Austin Allegro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Austin Allegro, 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. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air has automatic transmission and 1972 Austin Allegro has manual transmission. 1972 Austin Allegro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin Allegro | 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
| Make | Austin | Chevrolet |
| Model | Allegro | Bel Air |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 4343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2930 mm |
