1979 GMC Suburban vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 24 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 393 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1979 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 458 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 GMC Suburban. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
1979 GMC Suburban | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | GMC | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Suburban | SL |
Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4093 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 242 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1955 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2570 mm |