1973 GMC Suburban vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1973 GMC Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1973 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 GMC Suburban weights approximately 590 kg more than 2011 BMW Z4.
Because 1973 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 GMC Suburban. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 GMC Suburban. 1973 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 GMC Suburban | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | GMC | BMW |
| Model | Suburban | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 242 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2497 mm |
