1987 BMW Z1 vs. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1987 BMW Z1 is newer by 31 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, 1987 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 304 kg more than 1987 BMW Z1.
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 1987 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW Z1 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:
| 1987 BMW Z1 | 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | Z1 | Bel Air |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1554 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2930 mm |
