1989 GMC Suburban vs. 1954 Oldsmobile 98
To start off, 1989 GMC Suburban is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Oldsmobile 98. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Oldsmobile 98 would be higher. At 5,732 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 GMC Suburban (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1954 Oldsmobile 98. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1954 Oldsmobile 98.
Because 1989 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1954 Oldsmobile 98. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, both vehicles can yield 407 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1989 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 1954 Oldsmobile 98 has manual transmission. 1954 Oldsmobile 98 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 GMC Suburban | 1954 Oldsmobile 98 | |
| Make | GMC | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Suburban | 98 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5732 cc | 5320 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 5400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 3210 mm |
