1992 BMW 316 vs. 1978 Chevrolet Suburban

To start off, 1992 BMW 316 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Suburban would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 316 (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 890 kg more than 1992 BMW 316.

Because 1978 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Chevrolet 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, 1978 Chevrolet Suburban (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 316. 1978 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 1992 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1992 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Chevrolet Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1992 BMW 316 1978 Chevrolet Suburban
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model 316 Suburban
Year Released 1992 1978
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 4093 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 101 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 150 Nm 242 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 1600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1310 kg 2200 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 5480 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1950 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1800 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 3300 mm