1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 1972 Ford GT 40
To start off, 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford GT 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford GT 40 would be higher. At 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford GT 40 (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford GT 40 should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 1435 kg more than 1972 Ford GT 40.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Ford GT 40. 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) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 1981 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford GT 40. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 1972 Ford GT 40 has manual transmission. 1972 Ford GT 40 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:
| 1981 Chevrolet Suburban | 1972 Ford GT 40 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Suburban | GT 40 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1972 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 6210 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Torque | 326 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2395 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 980 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2420 mm |
