1979 GMC Suburban vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 29 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 GMC Suburban weights approximately 647 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1979 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 GMC Suburban | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Suburban | Passat |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2232 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1520 mm |
