1979 GMC Suburban vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 32 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 GMC Suburban weights approximately 252 kg more than 2011 BMW 550.
Because 1979 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW 550. 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 GMC Suburban | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | GMC | BMW |
| Model | Suburban | 550 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2232 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2968 mm |
