1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 1999 Ford Econoline
To start off, 1999 Ford Econoline is newer by 18 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 5,407 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Ford Econoline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Econoline (252 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Econoline should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Econoline weights approximately 153 kg more than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Ford Econoline. 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, 1999 Ford Econoline (474 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Econoline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chevrolet Suburban | 1999 Ford Econoline | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Suburban | Econoline |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 5407 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 474 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 2232 kg | 2385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 5390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 2060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 3510 mm |
