1978 GMC Suburban vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 34 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, 2012 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1978 GMC Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1978 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 GMC Suburban weights approximately 600 kg more than 2012 Lexus IS.
Because 1978 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Lexus IS. 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, 2012 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 GMC Suburban. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 GMC Suburban | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | GMC | Lexus |
| Model | Suburban | IS |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 242 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2731 mm |
