1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer 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 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 313 kg more than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Chevrolet Suburban | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Suburban | Explorer |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Body Type | SUV | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6210 cc | 4605 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 236 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 326 Nm | 382 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 2395 kg | 2082 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2840 mm |