1981 BMW 745 vs. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1981 BMW 745 is newer by 26 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, 1981 BMW 745 (252 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 745 should accelerate faster than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 745 weights approximately 40 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 1981 BMW 745 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 745 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:
| 1981 BMW 745 | 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 745 | Bel Air |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 4343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2930 mm |
