1979 GMC Suburban vs. 2009 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2009 Volvo XC90 is newer by 30 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 4,414 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo XC90 (311 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 GMC Suburban weights approximately 630 kg more than 2009 Volvo XC90.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Volvo XC90 (441 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 GMC Suburban | 2009 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | GMC | Volvo |
| Model | Suburban | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 4414 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5850 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2232 kg | 1602 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2870 mm |
