1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 2004 Chevrolet Suburban
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 23 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 5,327 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Suburban (282 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Suburban should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 182 kg more than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Chevrolet Suburban (441 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chevrolet Suburban | 2004 Chevrolet Suburban | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Suburban | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 5327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2232 kg | 2414 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 5580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 3310 mm |
