1989 GMC Suburban vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1989 GMC Suburban is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird 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 8 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1989 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 GMC Suburban. (407 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 GMC Suburban | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | GMC | Pontiac |
| Model | Suburban | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5732 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2750 mm |
