1971 BMW 3 vs. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban
To start off, 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 852 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Chevrolet 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, 1981 Chevrolet Suburban (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1981 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1981 Chevrolet Suburban | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 3 | Suburban |
Year Released | 1971 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 285 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2232 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1950 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1800 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3300 mm |