2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 47 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, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 367 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air has automatic transmission and 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 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:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cavalier | Bel Air |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 4343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1554 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2930 mm |
