1989 GMC Suburban vs. 1978 Volvo 164
To start off, 1989 GMC Suburban is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 164 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 70 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 164. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 164.
Because 1989 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volvo 164. 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, 1989 GMC Suburban (407 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 164. (204 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 GMC Suburban | 1978 Volvo 164 | |
| Make | GMC | Volvo |
| Model | Suburban | 164 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5732 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 5610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 3350 mm |
