1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 42 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 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 860 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
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 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 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:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
Make | Caterham | Chevrolet |
Model | C21 | Bel Air |
Year Released | 1997 | 1955 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4343 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 250 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1690 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2930 mm |