1985 GMC Suburban vs. 1998 GMC Safari
To start off, 1998 GMC Safari is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,299 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 GMC Safari (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1985 GMC Suburban. (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 1985 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 GMC Suburban weights approximately 285 kg more than 1998 GMC Safari.
Because 1985 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 GMC Safari. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1998 GMC Safari (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 GMC Suburban. (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 GMC Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 GMC Suburban | 1998 GMC Safari | |
| Make | GMC | GMC |
| Model | Suburban | Safari |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4299 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2240 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2830 mm |
