1973 Buick Skylark vs. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1973 Buick Skylark is newer by 18 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 5,724 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Buick Skylark (150 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Buick Skylark weights approximately 55 kg more than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air has automatic transmission and 1973 Buick Skylark has manual transmission. 1973 Buick Skylark 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:
| 1973 Buick Skylark | 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
| Make | Buick | Chevrolet |
| Model | Skylark | Bel Air |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5724 cc | 4343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2930 mm |
