1956 Pontiac Star Chief vs. 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 45 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 53 more horse power than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Pontiac Star Chief should accelerate faster than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Pontiac Star Chief weights approximately 435 kg more than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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. 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1956 Pontiac Star Chief has manual transmission. 1956 Pontiac Star Chief will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Pontiac Star Chief | 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Pontiac | Chevrolet |
| Model | Star Chief | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4714 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2650 mm |
