1988 GMC Suburban vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1988 GMC Suburban is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 GMC Suburban (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1974 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1988 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 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 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1988 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 GMC Suburban | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | GMC | Pontiac |
| Model | Suburban | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1974 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1600 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 |
