1979 GMC Suburban vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1979 GMC Suburban is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 GMC Suburban weights approximately 1032 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Because 1979 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Datsun 280Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1979 GMC Suburban (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 1979 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 GMC Suburban | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | GMC | Datsun |
| Model | Suburban | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2232 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2304 mm |
