2008 BMW 550 vs. 1979 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 GMC Suburban weights approximately 572 kg more than 2008 BMW 550.
Because 1979 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 550. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2008 BMW 550 (491 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 GMC Suburban. 1979 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 550 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 550 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 1979 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | BMW | GMC |
| Model | 550 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 491 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 2232 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3300 mm |
