1990 GMC Suburban vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1990 GMC Suburban is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 GMC Suburban (209 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1990 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1990 GMC Suburban (407 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1990 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 GMC Suburban | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | GMC | Pontiac |
| Model | Suburban | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2750 mm |
