USA vs USA — 1955 vs 1959
| Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon | LeSabre Custom 401 Nailhead | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 200 hp | 325 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 410 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,703 cc | 6,571 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | 9.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 105 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,650 lbs | 4,200 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,997 mm | 3,150 mm |
| Length | 5,131 mm | 5,562 mm |
| Units Produced | 9,835 | — |
| Original MSRP | $2,962 | $3,280 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 4/10 |
The 1959 Buick LeSabre Custom 401 Nailhead emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon counters with lighter weight, 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.
Among Full-size enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon and 1959 Buick LeSabre Custom 401 Nailhead is one for the ages. These Post-war machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1959 Buick LeSabre Custom 401 Nailhead holds a clear advantage in raw power with 325 hp compared to 200 hp, a 125-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 Buick LeSabre relies on a V8 OHV (Buick 401 Nailhead) with 6,571 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1959 Buick LeSabre Custom 401 Nailhead edges ahead at 9.5 seconds versus 12.5 seconds. The Pontiac Safari carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 550 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1955 Pontiac Safari Custom 2-Door Wagon commands a significant premium over the 1959 Buick LeSabre Custom 401 Nailhead, 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.