1996 BMW M3 vs. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 41 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, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 70 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
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 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 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:
1996 BMW M3 | 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | M3 | Bel Air |
Year Released | 1996 | 1955 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4343 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1690 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2930 mm |