1972 Chevrolet Chevelle vs. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban
To start off, 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle would be higher. At 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 818 kg more than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. 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 (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1981 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle has manual transmission. 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle 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:
| 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle | 1981 Chevrolet Suburban | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Chevelle | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5011 cc | 6210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 2395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 3300 mm |
