1979 GMC Suburban vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer 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 2011 Ford Explorer. 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 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 GMC Suburban | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | GMC | Ford |
| Model | Suburban | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2860 mm |
