1942 Buick 40 vs. 1956 Pontiac Star Chief
To start off, 1956 Pontiac Star Chief is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,714 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Pontiac Star Chief is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Pontiac Star Chief (173 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1942 Buick 40. (123 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Pontiac Star Chief should accelerate faster than 1942 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 Buick 40 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1956 Pontiac Star Chief.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1942 Buick 40 | 1956 Pontiac Star Chief | |
| Make | Buick | Pontiac |
| Model | 40 | Star Chief |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 4714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1650 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 3110 mm |
