1979 GMC Suburban vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 is newer by 25 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S80 (167 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 GMC Suburban weights approximately 615 kg more than 2004 Volvo S80.
Because 1979 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volvo S80. 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, 2004 Volvo S80 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 GMC Suburban. 1979 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 2004 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 2004 Volvo S80 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 | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | GMC | Volvo |
| Model | Suburban | S80 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2232 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2670 mm |
