1978 GMC Suburban vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 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 M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 314 more horse power than 1978 GMC Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 GMC Suburban weights approximately 315 kg more than 2011 BMW M3.
Because 1978 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW M3. 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 GMC Suburban. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 GMC Suburban. 1978 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 GMC Suburban | 2011 BMW M3 | |
Make | GMC | BMW |
Model | Suburban | M3 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4093 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 414 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 242 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1885 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4615 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1803 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1392 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2761 mm |