2009 GMC Sierra vs. 1997 GMC Safari
To start off, 2009 GMC Sierra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 GMC Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 GMC Safari would be higher. At 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 GMC Sierra (192 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1997 GMC Safari. (187 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1997 GMC Safari.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 GMC Safari (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 GMC Sierra. (260 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 GMC Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 GMC Sierra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 GMC Sierra | 1997 GMC Safari | |
| Make | GMC | GMC |
| Model | Sierra | Safari |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4300 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 98 L |
