1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 1998 Chrysler Viper
To start off, 1998 Chrysler Viper is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chevrolet Suburban would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 260 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 805 kg more than 1998 Chrysler Viper.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Chrysler Viper. 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, 1998 Chrysler Viper (621 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 1998 Chrysler Viper has manual transmission. 1998 Chrysler Viper 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 | 1998 Chrysler Viper | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Suburban | Viper |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6210 cc | 7986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 326 Nm | 621 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2395 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2450 mm |
