1974 Ford Fairlane vs. 1979 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1979 GMC Suburban is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Ford Fairlane (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 GMC Suburban weights approximately 780 kg more than 1974 Ford Fairlane.
Because 1979 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Ford Fairlane. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1974 Ford Fairlane (325 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1974 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Ford Fairlane | 1979 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Fairlane | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3984 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 2232 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3300 mm |
