2008 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 52 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 3,869 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
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, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air (278 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cobalt | Bel Air |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 3869 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2930 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 79 L |
