The key identifiable aspect of a group number is the varying dimensions of two separate batteries.
Each group number can directly be associated with a specific length, width, and height as per the BCI group size chart. However, there are other factors to consider as well.
I’ll go over everything you need to know about the differences between a group 78 vs group 79 battery in this article.
In addition to outlining their characteristics in detail, I will also provide recommendations on which one would be the best fit for you.
Group 78 Vs Group 79 Battery: Quick Comparison Table
A group 78 battery differs from a group 79 battery in various ways. I’ve included a table below that lists some of the key differences between them.
Let’s take a quick look at them.
| Differences | Group 78 Battery | Group 79 Battery |
| Dimensions (Inches) (L x W x H) | 10.25 x 7.0625 x 7.3125 | 12.0625 x 7.0625 x 7.375 |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| CCA Range (Cold Cranking Amps) | 465 – 875 | 800 – 840 |
| Best Used for | One of the most common batteries used in cars, trucks, and the light industry. | Tends to be more preferred by users in a colder region, due to the ability to start engines at colder temperatures. |
| Similar Battery Groups | Group 25 Batteries Group 86 Batteries | Group 27 Batteries Group 76 Batteries |
| Cost | $100 – $180 | $130 – $170 |
| Durability | 3 – 10 | 3 – 5 |
These are some of the most significant distinctions between a group 78 and a group 79 battery. In the next section, I’ll go through these features in further detail.
What Are the Differences Between Group 78 and Group 79 Battery?
I have showcased some of the key distinctions between these two battery sizes in the above table. I will discuss these features in detail below.
Dimensions
As the above table shows the dimensions of both of these battery sizes, it can clearly be seen that a group battery size 78 is shorter in length as well as height than a group 79 battery.
But a group 79 battery has the same width as a group 78 battery. But the excess length is a pretty huge consideration for users.
Dimension is not a major benefit or a drawback in its own regard. However, you must select the one that is appropriate for your vehicle. Otherwise, there is a serious possibility that the battery will not fit into the battery compartment of your vehicle.
Weight
A group 78-sized battery normally weighs around 50 pounds or somewhere around 23 kilograms.
On the other hand, a group 79 battery weighs somewhere around 70 pounds, or in terms of kilograms, 32 kilograms.
Which makes a group 78 battery significantly lighter than a group 79 battery. So, if a lighter battery is one of your key concerns, you should opt for a group 78 battery.
CCA Range (Cold Cranking Amps)
CCA is a rating used in the battery industry to define a battery’s ability to start an engine in cold temperatures. Therefore, the higher the CCA range of a battery, the better it will perform in colder weather.
From the table, it can be seen that a group 78 battery tends to have a lower average CCA range compared to a group 79 battery.
On the other hand, group 79 batteries tend to have very high CCA ratings. This helps to ensure that you will be able to start your engine in any and all-weather conditions.
Best Used for
BCI group 78 batteries are commonly used in ‘Stop-and-Go’ car applications, which need the batteries to supply large currents on a regular basis and to be recharged quickly.
Users in colder climates are a major client of group 79 batteries because it allows them to start their engines at lower temperatures due to them having a higher CCA range.
And therefore, it is up to the user to decide which aspect is more important to him/her. Whether it is a quick and efficient power supply or a reliable power source in harsh weather.
Similar Battery Groups
The physical dimensions of a group 78 battery are very similar to several other battery groups, allowing these batteries to be used almost interchangeably. Which are group 25 and group 86 batteries.
On the other hand, group 27 and group 76 batteries tend to be similar and interchangeable with group 78 batteries.
Cost
Some batteries of group size 78 can and may exceed the price of some group 79 batteries.
But group size 79 batteries have a higher average price.
So, technically, it would cost less to buy a group 78 battery.
Durability
Group size 78 batteries outlast group 79 batteries by a mile. The maximum battery life of a group 78 battery can reach 10 years.
But a group 79 battery can only last around 3 to 5 years.
So, if you’re in it for the long haul, group 78 is your best bet.
Group 78 or Group 79? Which is the Best for You?
Before you decide to opt for either of these batteries, you must take into consideration the factors that I have provided above. I will elaborate further for your clearance.
If you require a quick and powerful power boost at certain times and a quicker startup for your vehicle, a battery of group 78 will get you through most of it.
However, if you happen to live in a colder climate, where batteries tend to freeze up along with the circuitry, and hence are harder to start up the vehicle, you definitely should be looking for a battery with a higher CCA range, which a group 79 battery tends to provide.
However, you must take into consideration the dimensions of the battery compartment in your vehicle chassis before you opt for either of these. Because, if the battery does not fit your vehicle, it won’t matter how good it is.
Expert Suggestions: Group 78 and Group 79 Battery
As there are several brands and models of batteries available on the market, it might be confusing for you to choose one.
Here, I recommend some of the best batteries for both models, so that you can make the best decision as per your choice.
Group 78 Battery:
– Enhanced life alloy increases cycle life and improves performance.
– Vent cap design that resists acid leakage.
– Superior corrosion resistance sealed housing.
– 20x the vibration resistance of conventional batteries.
– Better cranking operations supported.
– 10% – 20% increased power supply and performance boost.
Group 79 Battery:
– Supports cold-cranking amps up to 840.
– Walmart provides free EverStart lead-acid battery recycling.
– Dependable under extreme heat, cold and everyday performance.
– 12-month free 100% replacement policy provided by the company.
Summary
I’ve gone through the differences between a group 78 vs group 79 battery in this article so you can make an informed decision about which battery size to choose based on your own requirements and your vehicle standards.
It is vital to evaluate the battery group before purchasing a replacement. If you make a mistake or make the wrong judgment, you might lose a lot of money. As a result, recognizing the distinctions between various battery sizes is critical.
