1981 Cadillac Seville vs. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1981 Cadillac Seville is newer by 25 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 4,343 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1981 Cadillac Seville. (123 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1981 Cadillac Seville. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Cadillac Seville weights approximately 116 kg more than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air.
Because 1956 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 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Cadillac Seville, 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.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Cadillac Seville | 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
Make | Cadillac | Chevrolet |
Model | Seville | Bel Air |
Year Released | 1981 | 1956 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4129 cc | 4343 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1554 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1690 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2930 mm |