USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1955
| GTO 400 Ram Air | Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 366 hp | 200 hp |
| Torque | 445 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,555 cc | 4,703 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.2 sec | 12.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 105 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.2 sec | 18.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,500 lbs | 3,650 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,845 mm | 2,997 mm |
| Length | 5,131 mm | 5,131 mm |
| Units Produced | 87,684 | 9,835 |
| Original MSRP | $3,101 | $2,962 |
| Value (Excellent) | $110,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 8/10 |
The 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. That said, the 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon brings greater rarity and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value Pontiac heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.
The 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air and 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon share a manufacturer in Pontiac, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Pontiac brand. The 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air holds a clear advantage in raw power with 366 hp compared to 200 hp, a 166-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Pontiac GTO 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 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air edges ahead at 6.2 seconds versus 12.5 seconds. 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 GTO's 87,684 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.