1976 Pontiac Grand Safari vs. 1955 Pontiac Star Chief
To start off, 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Pontiac Star Chief. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Pontiac Star Chief would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Pontiac Star Chief (173 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari. (138 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Pontiac Star Chief should accelerate faster than 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari weights approximately 214 kg more than 1955 Pontiac Star Chief.
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. 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari has automatic transmission and 1955 Pontiac Star Chief has manual transmission. 1955 Pontiac Star Chief will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari | 1955 Pontiac Star Chief | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Grand Safari | Star Chief |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 4715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 1656 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5450 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3110 mm |
