1979 GMC Suburban vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 31 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Suburban.

Because 1979 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2010 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make GMC Mercedes-Benz
Model Suburban SL
Year Released 1979 2010
Body Type SUV Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4093 cc 2996 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 129 HP 228 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 300 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic 7-speed shiftable automatic
Vehicle Length 5480 mm 4582 mm
Vehicle Height 1800 mm 1298 mm
Wheelbase Size 3300 mm 2560 mm