1954 Pontiac Star Chief vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Pontiac Star Chief. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Pontiac Star Chief would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (257 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1954 Pontiac Star Chief. (173 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1954 Pontiac Star Chief. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Pontiac Star Chief weights approximately 115 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Firebird.
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. 1996 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1954 Pontiac Star Chief has manual transmission. 1954 Pontiac Star Chief will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Pontiac Star Chief | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Star Chief | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4715 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2570 mm |
