1956 Pontiac Star Chief vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 1996 Proton 400 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Pontiac Star Chief. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Pontiac Star Chief 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 99 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Pontiac Star Chief should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Pontiac Star Chief weights approximately 680 kg more than 1996 Proton 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Pontiac Star Chief 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 1956 Pontiac Star Chief. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Proton 400, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Pontiac Star Chief | 1996 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Proton |
| Model | Star Chief | 400 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4714 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2510 mm |
