1956 Pontiac Star Chief vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 56 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1956 Pontiac Star Chief. (173 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1956 Pontiac Star Chief. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 90 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.
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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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. 2012 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Pontiac Star Chief | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Pontiac | Buick |
| Model | Star Chief | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4714 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2837 mm |
