2001 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 1956 Pontiac Star Chief
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 45 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 25 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Pontiac Star Chief should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Pontiac Star Chief weights approximately 393 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 Pontiac Star Chief. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire, 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:
| 2001 Pontiac Sunfire | 1956 Pontiac Star Chief | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Sunfire | Star Chief |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 4714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1257 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3110 mm |
