1976 BMW 3.3 vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1981 GMC Suburban is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 BMW 3.3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 BMW 3.3 would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 BMW 3.3 (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 BMW 3.3 should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 736 kg more than 1976 BMW 3.3.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 BMW 3.3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 GMC 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, both vehicles can yield 285 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 BMW 3.3 | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | BMW | GMC |
| Model | 3.3 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3295 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3300 mm |
