1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1978 Chevrolet Nova is newer by 23 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 40 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 60 kg more than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Nova | Bel Air |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 4343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2930 mm |
