1978 GMC Suburban vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 33 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, 2011 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1978 GMC Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1978 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 GMC Suburban weights approximately 880 kg more than 2011 BMW 120.
Because 1978 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW 120. 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 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1978 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 GMC Suburban | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | GMC | BMW |
| Model | Suburban | 120 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 242 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2670 mm |
