1997 BMW M3 vs. 1954 Pontiac Star Chief
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Pontiac Star Chief. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Pontiac Star Chief would be higher. At 4,715 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Pontiac Star Chief is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1954 Pontiac Star Chief. (173 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1954 Pontiac Star Chief. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Pontiac Star Chief weights approximately 350 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1954 Pontiac Star Chief | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | M3 | Star Chief |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3110 mm |
