1979 GMC Suburban vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 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 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (188 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter weights approximately 571 kg more than 1979 GMC Suburban. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. 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 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 GMC Suburban.

Compare all specifications:

1979 GMC Suburban 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Make GMC Mercedes-Benz
Model Suburban Sprinter
Year Released 1979 2011
Body Type SUV Van
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4093 cc 3000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 129 HP 188 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 440 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 1400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Vehicle Weight 2232 kg 2803 kg
Vehicle Length 5480 mm 6939 mm
Vehicle Width 1950 mm 2024 mm
Vehicle Height 1800 mm 2731 mm
Wheelbase Size 3300 mm 4326 mm