2009 Ford E-350 vs. 1979 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2009 Ford E-350 is newer by 30 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 5,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 GMC Suburban weights approximately 1266 kg more than 2009 Ford E-350.
Because 1979 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Ford E-350. 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, 2009 Ford E-350 (475 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford E-350 | 1979 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | E-350 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Van | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5408 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 2232 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5900 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2140 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 3300 mm |
