1956 Pontiac Star Chief vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 55 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1956 Pontiac Star Chief. (173 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1956 Pontiac Star Chief. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 236 kg more than 1956 Pontiac Star Chief. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Pontiac Star Chief | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Pontiac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Star Chief | CLS |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4714 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1886 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2875 mm |
