1999 BMW 318 vs. 1956 Pontiac Star Chief
To start off, 1999 BMW 318 is newer by 43 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, 1956 Pontiac Star Chief (173 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Pontiac Star Chief should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Pontiac Star Chief weights approximately 252 kg more than 1999 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 1999 BMW 318 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. 1999 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 1956 Pontiac Star Chief | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 318 | Star Chief |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3110 mm |
