1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 2003 Volvo C70
To start off, 2003 Volvo C70 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 Volvo C70 (197 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 667 kg more than 2003 Volvo C70.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volvo C70. 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, both vehicles can yield 285 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo C70 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo C70 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 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Suburban | C70 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2522 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2232 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2860 mm |
