Pontiac Firebird

vs

Pontiac Safari

USA vs USA — 1967 vs 1955

Pontiac Firebird (1967)
Pontiac Safari (1955)
Specifications
Firebird 400Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon
Horsepower330 hp200 hp
Torque430 lb-ft280 lb-ft
Engine Size6,555 cc4,703 cc
0-60 mph6.4 sec12.5 sec
Top Speed130 mph105 mph
¼ Mile14.5 sec18.5 sec
Weight3,300 lbs3,650 lbs
Wheelbase2,743 mm2,997 mm
Length4,851 mm5,131 mm
Units Produced82,5609,835
Original MSRP$2,781$2,962
Value (Excellent)$90,000$120,000
Collectibility8/108/10
Rarity5/108/10
The Verdict

On balance, the 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon counters with greater rarity, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 for outright capability, or the 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon for a more distinctive ownership experience.

Overview

Pontiac has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 with the 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 330 hp compared to 200 hp, a 130-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Pontiac Firebird uses a V8 OHV (Pontiac 400) displacing 6,555 cc, while the Pontiac Safari relies on a V8 OHV (Strato-Streak) with 4,703 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1967 Pontiac Firebird 400 edges ahead at 6.4 seconds versus 12.5 seconds. The Pontiac Firebird carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 350 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 9,835 units built, the 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon is considerably scarcer than the Pontiac Firebird's 82,560 examples.