1999 BMW 540 vs. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1999 BMW 540 is newer by 44 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 221 kg more than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 1999 BMW 540 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 540 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:
1999 BMW 540 | 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 540 | Bel Air |
Year Released | 1999 | 1955 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4398 cc | 4343 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1690 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2930 mm |