1978 GMC Suburban vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 27 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1978 GMC Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1978 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 GMC Suburban weights approximately 815 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1978 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1978 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 GMC Suburban | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | GMC | Mazda |
| Model | Suburban | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 242 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2680 mm |
