difference between a 1996 and a 1998

**THier** · 12-10-2008, 05:10 PM

Going to look at two burbs tomorrow, a 1996 with 160k and a 1998 with 190k. Is there any difference in a 96 - 98? Both sound equiped the same, if they are the same and same condition, would you go 1996 with 160k for $3600 or a 1998 with 190K for $3900?

Working on them is no real issue, been a mechanic my entire life,, did it for 16years professionally.

Thanks,
Tom

**retired2001** · 12-10-2008, 11:55 PM

If both are in the same shape, I'd think that 30K miles at this point isn't really all that bad. I'd probably go with the '98, just because it's "newer". Mechanically, the '96 didn't have a passenger side air bag. Good luck!

**THier** · 12-11-2008, 03:39 AM

Originally Posted by retired2001

If both are in the same shape, I'd think that 30K miles at this point isn't really all that bad. I'd probably go with the '98, just because it's "newer". Mechanically, the '96 didn't have a passenger side air bag. Good luck!

Thanks!!

I didn't think there would be much difference. I talked with both owners last night,, the '96 has cloth and the '98 has leather.

Tom

**MrShorty** · 12-11-2008, 11:30 AM

One potential difference that comes to mind: '98 was the first year for "Autotrak" There's some debate around as to the value of a 4auto setting, and I don't know about you personally. Just so you you can consider it.

**Bearkat** · 12-11-2008, 12:17 PM

I just recently bought a '98 GMC Suburban SLT with leather and what seems to be every other option too

When I was doing research I noticed GM added Variable assist power steering in the 1998 model year!

**vncj96** · 12-11-2008, 04:00 PM

for the mileage those a little high in price, there are some fully loaded with less miles in great shape and around $3k

**dutzowmo** · 12-11-2008, 05:40 PM

97 was the first year for the vortec 350 engine. So the 98 will have more power

**04sierracrewcab** · 12-11-2008, 06:20 PM

come on guys the difference is 2 years! Duh!

**THier** · 12-11-2008, 08:11 PM

Originally Posted by 04sierracrewcab

come on guys the difference is 2 years! Duh!

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^We have a winner!!!!!!!^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Well,, bought the 96.

The interior of the 98 was horrible, Leather cracked and torn, it look like it had a battery explosion, (owner had told me about that) but the paint was pretty severely damaged on the LF and had an exhaust manifold leak that sealed when it warmed up.

I had a 45mile drive home,, both high speed and stop and go bumper to bumper. Truck ran straight, smooth and quiet. Shifts felt good, oil pressure is good, temps stayed at mid scale. Headlight are oxidized,, but I plan on buffing them hopefully this weekend.
All and all in very good condition for a 12year old truck with 160k on the clock. I want to get it detailed soon, and will post pics when I do. It is the two tone red- burgundy with the burgundy cloth interior, which is in very good condition.

Thanks for the help and info.

Tom

**04sierracrewcab** · 12-11-2008, 08:22 PM

Originally Posted by THier

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^We have a winner!!!!!!!^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Well,, bought the 96.

The interior of the 98 was horrible, Leather cracked and torn, it look like it had a battery explosion, (owner had told me about that) but the paint was pretty severely damaged on the LF and had an exhaust manifold leak that sealed when it warmed up.

I had a 45mile drive home,, both high speed and stop and go bumper to bumper. Truck ran straight, smooth and quiet. Shifts felt good, oil pressure is good, temps stayed at mid scale. Headlight are oxidized,, but I plan on buffing them hopefully this weekend.
All and all in very good condition for a 12year old truck with 160k on the clock. I want to get it detailed soon, and will post pics when I do. It is the two tone red- burgundy with the burgundy cloth interior, which is in very good condition.

Thanks for the help and info.

Tom

Glad to hear about the purchase!

Post some pics when ya get it deatailed!