1989 Ford Fairlane vs. 1979 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1989 Ford Fairlane is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Fairlane (186 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 GMC Suburban weights approximately 640 kg more than 1989 Ford Fairlane.
Because 1979 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ford Fairlane. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1989 Ford Fairlane (338 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 GMC Suburban. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fairlane | 1979 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Fairlane | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3949 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 186 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 242 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 2200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 3300 mm |
