1973 BMW 3 vs. 1983 Chevrolet Suburban
To start off, 1983 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 7,445 cc (8 cylinders), 1983 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Chevrolet Suburban (227 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3. (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Chevrolet Suburban should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 1060 kg more than 1973 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1983 Chevrolet Suburban (488 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1983 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3. 1983 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1973 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Chevrolet Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 1983 Chevrolet Suburban | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 7445 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 488 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 2330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3300 mm |
