USA vs USA — 1955 vs 1957
| Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon | Colony Park 390 V8 Wagon | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 200 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,703 cc | 6,391 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | 10.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 105 mph | 110 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 17.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,650 lbs | 4,500 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,997 mm | 3,048 mm |
| Length | 5,131 mm | 5,588 mm |
| Units Produced | 9,835 | — |
| Original MSRP | $2,962 | $3,600 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $50,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 5/10 |
Numbers favor the 1957 Mercury Colony Park 390 V8 Wagon with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon offers lighter weight, stronger collectibility, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
In the world of Full-size cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon versus the 1957 Mercury Colony Park 390 V8 Wagon. Both hail from Post-war and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1957 Mercury Colony Park 390 V8 Wagon holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 200 hp, a 100-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 Mercury Colony Park relies on a V8 OHV (FE-series 390) with 6,391 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Mercury Colony Park 390 V8 Wagon edges ahead at 10.5 seconds versus 12.5 seconds. The Pontiac Safari carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 850 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon commands a significant premium over the 1957 Mercury Colony Park 390 V8 Wagon, 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.