1978 Buick Regal vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1981 GMC Suburban is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Regal would be higher. At 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 GMC Suburban (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1978 Buick Regal. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Regal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 965 kg more than 1978 Buick Regal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Buick Regal. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1981 GMC Suburban (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Regal. (218 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Regal.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Buick Regal | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
Make | Buick | GMC |
Model | Regal | Suburban |
Year Released | 1978 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3214 cc | 6210 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 218 Nm | 326 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 2395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1950 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1800 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 3300 mm |