2004 GMC Safari vs. 1988 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 2004 GMC Safari is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. Both 2004 GMC Safari and 1988 Chevrolet Astro are equipped with a 4,293 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2004 GMC Safari (188 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 GMC Safari weights approximately 50 kg more than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 GMC Safari. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Chevrolet Astro 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 338 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. 2004 GMC Safari has automatic transmission and 1988 Chevrolet Astro has manual transmission. 1988 Chevrolet Astro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 GMC Safari will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 GMC Safari | 1988 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | GMC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Safari | Astro |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Van | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2830 mm |
