1997 Ford Contour vs. 1954 Pontiac Star Chief
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour 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 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1954 Pontiac Star Chief. (173 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour 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 260 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 1954 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 1954 Pontiac Star Chief. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour, 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:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1954 Pontiac Star Chief | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Contour | Star Chief |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 4715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3110 mm |
