In a recent paper by Cheney and Marsh (1981), SEASAT altimeter data were used to derive quantitative information on sea surface height anomalies across the Gulf Stream. In another recent paper by Kao (1980), the dynamics of the Gulf Stream front was investigated, and a similarity solution was obtained. The model gives a universal shape of the sea surface height rise and the width of the anomaly across the Gulf Stream. In this paper we present a quantitative comparison between the model and six Gulf Stream altimeter profiles representing a broad range of conditions. The remarkable closeness of fit is mutually reinforcing to both the model and to the role of satellite altimetry in ocean dynamics. Comparisons of the data with the well-known theories of Stommel (1966) and Charney (1955) are also made, and implications of these comparisons are explored.