1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 22 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 737 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chevrolet Suburban | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Suburban | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2232 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2710 mm |
