1988 GMC Suburban vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1988 GMC Suburban is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 GMC Suburban (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1971 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1971 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1988 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 GMC Suburban (407 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Pontiac Firebird. (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1988 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 GMC Suburban | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | GMC | Pontiac |
| Model | Suburban | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1971 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 5792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2750 mm |
