1988 GMC Suburban vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1988 GMC Suburban is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 23 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1988 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 GMC Suburban | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | GMC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Suburban | 280 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2940 mm |
