1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 2003 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2003 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback (162 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 960 kg more than 2003 Subaru Outback.
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, 1981 Chevrolet Suburban (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Outback. (225 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1981 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Outback. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 2003 Subaru Outback has manual transmission. 2003 Subaru Outback 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 | 2003 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Subaru |
| Model | Suburban | Outback |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6210 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 326 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2395 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2660 mm |
