2002 Ford Taurus vs. 1954 Pontiac Star Chief
To start off, 2002 Ford Taurus is newer by 48 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, 1954 Pontiac Star Chief (173 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2002 Ford Taurus. (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1954 Pontiac Star Chief should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Pontiac Star Chief weights approximately 173 kg more than 2002 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Ford Taurus, 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. 2002 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1954 Pontiac Star Chief has manual transmission. 1954 Pontiac Star Chief will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Taurus | 1954 Pontiac Star Chief | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Taurus | Star Chief |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2933 cc | 4715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1477 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 3110 mm |
