1979 GMC Suburban vs. 2012 Dodge Challenger
To start off, 2012 Dodge Challenger is newer by 33 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, 2012 Dodge Challenger (305 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 GMC Suburban weights approximately 493 kg more than 2012 Dodge Challenger.
Because 1979 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Dodge Challenger. 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, 2012 Dodge Challenger (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 GMC Suburban | 2012 Dodge Challenger | |
| Make | GMC | Dodge |
| Model | Suburban | Challenger |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2232 kg | 1739 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 5022 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1923 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2946 mm |
