1977 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1977 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 21 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 5,765 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Chevrolet Corvette (207 HP) has 59 more horse power than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 10 kg more than 1956 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. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air has automatic transmission and 1977 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 1977 Chevrolet Corvette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Chevrolet Corvette | 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Corvette | Bel Air |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5765 cc | 4343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 148 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1564 kg | 1554 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2930 mm |
