USA vs USA — 1974 vs 1955
| Firebird Super Duty 455 | Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 290 hp | 200 hp |
| Torque | 400 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 4,703 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 sec | 12.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 105 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.8 sec | 18.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,700 lbs | 3,650 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,768 mm | 2,997 mm |
| Length | 5,073 mm | 5,131 mm |
| Units Produced | 943 | 9,835 |
| Original MSRP | $4,446 | $2,962 |
| Value (Excellent) | $175,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 8/10 |
The 1974 Pontiac Firebird Super Duty 455 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 better value 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.
Within the Pontiac stable, the 1974 Pontiac Firebird Super Duty 455 and 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Pontiac badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1974 Pontiac Firebird Super Duty 455 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 290 hp compared to 200 hp, a 90-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Pontiac Firebird uses a V8 OHV displacing 7,456 cc, while the Pontiac Safari relies on a V8 OHV (Strato-Streak) with 4,703 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1974 Pontiac Firebird Super Duty 455 edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 12.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 943 units built, the 1974 Pontiac Firebird Super Duty 455 is considerably scarcer than the Pontiac Safari's 9,835 examples.