1978 GMC Suburban vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1978 GMC Suburban is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,598 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (185 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1978 GMC Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1978 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 GMC Suburban weights approximately 547 kg more than 1972 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1978 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (434 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 GMC Suburban. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1972 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
1978 GMC Suburban | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | GMC | Pontiac |
Model | Suburban | Firebird |
Year Released | 1978 | 1972 |
Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4093 cc | 6598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 242 Nm | 434 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1653 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2750 mm |