1963 Bristol 408 vs. 1986 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1986 GMC Suburban is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Bristol 408. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Bristol 408 would be higher. At 5,129 cc (8 cylinders), 1963 Bristol 408 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Bristol 408 (215 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1986 GMC Suburban. (154 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Bristol 408 should accelerate faster than 1986 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 GMC Suburban weights approximately 655 kg more than 1963 Bristol 408.
Because 1986 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1963 Bristol 408. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 GMC Suburban will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1963 Bristol 408 (463 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 GMC Suburban. (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1963 Bristol 408 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Bristol 408 | 1986 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Bristol | GMC |
| Model | 408 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5129 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 463 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 3300 mm |
