1981 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Chevrolet Suburban
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 5,967 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Suburban (352 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Suburban should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 980 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chevrolet Suburban (519 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 349 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 2008 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2008 Chevrolet Suburban | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 520 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 5967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 352 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 519 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 2200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 148 L |
