1979 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2003 Chevrolet Suburban
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,327 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban (282 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban should accelerate faster than 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 686 kg more than 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban (441 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. (278 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chevrolet Caprice.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chevrolet Caprice | 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Caprice | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4392 cc | 5327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 9 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1644 kg | 2330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 5580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3310 mm |
