1991 Buick Riviera vs. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1991 Buick Riviera is newer by 35 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, 1991 Buick Riviera (170 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Buick Riviera 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 34 kg more than 1991 Buick Riviera.
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, 1991 Buick Riviera, 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:
| 1991 Buick Riviera | 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
| Make | Buick | Chevrolet |
| Model | Riviera | Bel Air |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 4343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1554 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2930 mm |
