1977 GMC Suburban vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1978 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1977 GMC Suburban. (101 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1977 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 GMC Suburban weights approximately 604 kg more than 1978 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1977 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1978 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 GMC Suburban. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1978 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 GMC Suburban | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | GMC | Pontiac |
| Model | Suburban | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 242 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2750 mm |
