1953 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1303
To start off, 1973 Volkswagen 1303 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Chevrolet Bel Air. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Chevrolet Bel Air would be higher. At 3,859 cc (6 cylinders), 1953 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1953 Chevrolet Bel Air (115 HP @ 3700 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1303. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1953 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1303. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 683 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1303. 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. 1953 Chevrolet Bel Air has automatic transmission and 1973 Volkswagen 1303 has manual transmission. 1973 Volkswagen 1303 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1953 Chevrolet Bel Air will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1953 Chevrolet Bel Air | 1973 Volkswagen 1303 | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Bel Air | 1303 |
Year Released | 1953 | 1973 |
Engine Size | 3859 cc | 1493 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 52 HP |
Engine RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1483 kg | 800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2410 mm |