1979 GMC Suburban vs. 1998 GMC Safari
To start off, 1998 GMC Safari is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 GMC Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 GMC Safari (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 GMC Suburban weights approximately 245 kg more than 1998 GMC Safari.
Because 1979 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 GMC Safari. 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, 1998 GMC Safari (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 GMC Suburban. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1998 GMC Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 GMC Suburban | 1998 GMC Safari | |
| Make | GMC | GMC |
| Model | Suburban | Safari |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 242 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2830 mm |
