1956 Pontiac Star Chief vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1956 Pontiac Star Chief. (173 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1956 Pontiac Star Chief. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Pontiac Star Chief weights approximately 249 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
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 Volkswagen GTI, 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 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Star Chief | GTI |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4714 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2578 mm |
