Pontiac Safari

vs

Pontiac Sunfire

USA vs USA — 1955 vs 1995

Pontiac Safari (1955)
Pontiac Sunfire (1995)
Specifications
Safari Custom 2-Door WagonSunfire GT 2.4L
Horsepower200 hp150 hp
Torque280 lb-ft160 lb-ft
Engine Size4,703 cc2,392 cc
0-60 mph12.5 sec8.2 sec
Top Speed105 mph121 mph
¼ Mile18.5 sec16.2 sec
Weight3,650 lbs2,636 lbs
Wheelbase2,997 mm2,604 mm
Length5,131 mm4,580 mm
Units Produced9,835—
Original MSRP$2,962$16,500
Value (Excellent)$120,000$6,000
Collectibility8/102/10
Rarity8/102/10
The Verdict

The 1995 Pontiac Sunfire GT 2.4L emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon counters with more power, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon and 1995 Pontiac Sunfire GT 2.4L 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 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon holds a clear advantage in raw power with 200 hp compared to 150 hp, a 50-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Pontiac Safari uses a V8 OHV (Strato-Streak) displacing 4,703 cc, while the Pontiac Sunfire relies on a Inline-4 DOHC (LD9 Quad 4) with 2,392 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1995 Pontiac Sunfire GT 2.4L edges ahead at 8.2 seconds versus 12.5 seconds. The Pontiac Sunfire carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1014 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon commands a significant premium over the 1995 Pontiac Sunfire GT 2.4L, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.