Chevy 210 vs Bel Air – as two favorite American classics through the ages, have their own identity and uniqueness in each version.
For more details on all generations of Chevy and Bel air, keep scrolling down and read this blog post!
A Breakdown Of Chevy 210 vs Bel Air
Back in the time, the 210 vs Bel Air was launched in the 1950s. While the Chevy 210 had 2 generations of cars produced, the Bel Air was made continuously for 7 generations lasting from 1950 to 1975.
Many people have fallen in love with the Chevy Bel Air because of its classic appearance, two-tone coat of paint, huge steering wheel, chrome embellishments, V-8 engine, convertible, and roof.
On the other hand, Chevy produced the 210 in several body styles as a mid-range car for everyone, including a flexible two- and four-door sedan, a hardtop Sport Coupe, and a four-door station wagon.
Chevy 210
Let’s delve into the history of this iconic series, which are desirable models among drag racers:
First Generation (1953–1954)
The world witnessed the debut of a superstar in the United States in 1953, the Chevrolet 2100 (shortened to 210, or two-ten model).
This series is identical except for the models’ minor front and back changes for aesthetics.
Regarding powertrains, each 1953-54 model featured two engines, the stronger Blue Flame engine paired with the automatic transmission called Powerglide .
All Two-Tens come equipped with a 3-speed Synchromesh transmission, with two available variants, using an overhead valve (OHV) system, not OHC.
There were huge slotted head screws included to attach the pushrod covers and the valve cover to the block. That’s why they are commonly known as “Stovebolt Sixes.”
Second Generation (1955–1957)
1955 Chevy 210
The 1955 series model year introduced a brand-new chassis and the small-block engine – V8. For additional security, the middle door frame is strengthened.
This was not the first Chevrolet to have a V8 engine but the Series D, released in 1917 and constructed almost two years before Chevrolet entered General Motors.
1956 Chevy 210
The engine options remain the same, except they were rated for more horsepower. Three variants of the 265 cu in (4.3 L) V8 exist.
Notwithstanding the line, the 1956 Series model has a new uniform build. At first sight, 1956 Chevy 210 vs Bel Air are not different in appearance that much.
1957 Chevy 210 vs Bel Air
The available 283 cu in (4.6 L) small-block V8 was innovative for 1957. This vehicle is available in three configurations, each with a traditional carburetor and a fuel injection option.
Regarding 57 Chevy 210 vs Bel Air, the wedge-shaped side window trim of the Two-Ten is similar to that on the Bel Air.
However, this 210 wedge has coated either body or top color with a choice of bichrome paint. The script’s “Chevrolet” is installed in the wedge.
Chevy Bel Air
First Generation (1950-1954)
From 1950 to 1952, the production series was only available as a two-door hardtop. Since its release back then, the line had received a huge success and popularity.
In 1954, Chevy launched a new model with a few twists in the tail lights and grille.
Second Generation (1955-1957)
Other improvements were added to the Bel Air beneath the hood and the outward appearance of the 1955 series model. The front grille is Ferrari-inspired in design.
Because of its popularity, Chevrolet began referring to the Bel Air as “The Hot One.” Critics lauded its performance and smooth “Powerglide” drivetrain.
Through 1956, design enhancements included a two-tone paint job, an improved tail light configuration, a disguised fuel tank cap, and a pillar-less doorway to complete the design.
Third Generation (1958)
Bel Airs received a substantial restoration in 1958. It is broader, taller, and has a lower stance.
Other changes are four-corner headlamps and less chrome accents.
The modification in transmission choice compared to the previous “PNDLR” was a notable change in the 1958 model, which was well received by the public.
Fourth Generation (1959-1960)
All Chevrolet vehicles enjoyed significant stylistic revisions in 1959.
It had a huge tail fin, wide tail lights, and a long, broad, low slung that set it apart from other automobiles of the time.
The revolutionary jet aircraft in that time inspired the design of this generation.
Fifth Generation (1961-1964)
Chevrolet released the legendary Bel Air’s 5th generation with a 409 cubic inch V8 engine in 1961, rapidly becoming a racing obsession.
Because it is lighter than Impala, the Chevy Bel Air sports coupe is the most desirable model among racers.
Chevy rounded up the hardtop in the 1962 series model, naming it the “bubble top” style that we still use today.
They also dropped the Bel Air four-door sports hardtop version. There are now only four-door wagon variants under the fifth-generation Bel Air name, such as the Biscayne or Impala series.
A year later, Chevy launched a new six-cylinder engine with greater horsepower and enhanced the V8 engine.
The 1963 Chevrolet Bel Air offered only two style options: a 2-door sedan or a 4-door sedan with enough room for six or nine people.
Sixth Generation (1965-1970)
Sweeping lines and bulging rear fenders are among the major aesthetic alterations.
In 1966-67, circular taillights were substituted by rectangular ones for a little while. However, the round ones reappeared in 1968, sunk into the bumper, and were discarded once more in 1969.
Seventh Generation (1971-1975)
The 7th generation Chevrolet Bel Air was manufactured from 1971 to 1975. Chevrolet canceled the Biscayne and reduced the Bel Air to a low-end version in 1972.
The seventh-generation Bel Air sedans were equipped with a 350 engine (V8) and a Turbo-Hydramatic gearbox from 1974 to 1975.
The scooter comes with a 400 V8, with a 454 V8 available on both variants. If you want to know more about 350 and 400 small-block engines, click here.
Since Chevy discontinued the two-door option in 1970, only station wagons and four-door sedan engine types were available from 1970 to 1975.
FAQs
What Is The Difference Between a 1955 and 1956 Chevy Bel Air?
The 1956 Bel Air had various ornamental features, including a side trim running along the car as well as a front and center V on the hood. That trim adds a chrome accent with a unique painted center.
Unlike the ’55, the grille of the ’56 spans the whole length of the front end.
What Does Bel Air Mean In Chevy?
It is named after the affluent Bel Air neighborhood on the Westside of LA, United States.
Conclusion
In summary, this post gives the full breakdown of Chevy 210 vs Bel Air through all of their generations.
Though the two are both discontinued, we still consider them iconics of Chevrolet. Hopefully, this information has satisfied you.
Thank you for reading the post. See you next time!