1955 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 53 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, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 185 kg more than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air.
Because 1955 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 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra, 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. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air has automatic transmission and 2008 Saturn Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Saturn Astra 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:
| 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
| Model | Bel Air | Astra |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4343 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2620 mm |
