Look what happens to the A-pillar on the Bel Air.....wow!
Does the saying "they dont make em like they use to" apply here, I dont think so.
http://online.wsj.com/video/chevy-crash-test-1959-bel-air--vs-2009-malibu/81C56182-07AA-490A-BB32-60391DE4035D.html
Shows the progress in safety that's been made since the late 50's, most notably collapsable steering column, air bags and uni-body construction, which utilizes a space frame to direct impact forces around the passenger compartment. It would also appear the BelAir didn't have shoulder harnesses, either. Cool footage.
Wow that was something. You can definitely see some of the safety features from the 09 and the lack of them in the 59. As mentioned the penetration and transfer of energy was incredible. And how about the built in crumple zones of the 09 hood vs the rigid one on the 59. And the safety glass windshield. Makes you wonder how so many of us survived earlier model cars. I'm not old enough to have ridden in those old 59's, but I remember cruising around in my Mom's 70 Barracuda with no seat belts on.
why in the world would anyone take a car that nice and absolutely destroy it.
Yikes. I'll take the Malibu.
wow. was that at a standard speed. Guess the airbags are a way good idea too. what a shame to have destroyed the BelAire though.