1988 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1973 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1988 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1973 GMC Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1973 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 GMC Suburban weights approximately 590 kg more than 1988 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1973 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 GMC Suburban. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Thunderbird | 1973 GMC Suburban | |
Make | Ford | GMC |
Model | Thunderbird | Suburban |
Year Released | 1988 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4092 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 242 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1950 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1800 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3300 mm |