1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 21 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 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 365 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 520 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 374 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chevrolet Suburban | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Suburban | SL |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6210 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 326 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2395 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2570 mm |
