How are Darry and Ponyboy similar and different?

Ponyboy and Darry share many similarities throughout the novel. Unlike the majority of the Greasers, both Pony and Darry are intelligent, good-looking, and athletic. Darry was an outstanding football player who even earned an athletic scholarship to play in college, while Pony is a standout track star at his high school. Ponyboy is enrolled in higher-level courses, and Darry also earned good grades while in school. Pony and Darry do not enjoy being Greasers and cherish their friendships more than they do their unfavorable reputations. Both brothers are also loyal, selfless individuals who stick up for their friends and risk their own well-being for others.
Despite their many similarities, Darry and Ponyboy have drastically different personalities. Darry acts callous and upset because of his difficult situation. He has the responsibility of providing for the family and is often portrayed as strict and unsympathetic. Darry is also a physically intimidating person who is respected and feared by each member of the gang. In contrast, Ponyboy is a more sensitive, empathetic individual who values the arts and does not lose his temper as easily as Darry. Ponyboy does not strike fear into any of the Greasers and does not enjoy participating in rumbles. Ponyboy is also a more easy-going, understanding person and is not as demanding as his oldest brother.