1978 GMC Suburban vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1978 GMC Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1978 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 GMC Suburban weights approximately 640 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1978 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 1978 GMC Suburban (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
1978 GMC Suburban | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | GMC | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Suburban | 280 |
Year Released | 1978 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2745 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 242 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2940 mm |