1981 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1956 Pontiac Star Chief
To start off, 1981 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 25 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1956 Pontiac Star Chief. (173 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird 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 34 kg more than 1981 Pontiac Firebird.
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. 1981 Pontiac Firebird 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. 1981 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Pontiac Firebird | 1956 Pontiac Star Chief | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Firebird | Star Chief |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 4714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1616 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 3110 mm |
