1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 2004 Ford Focus

To start off, 2004 Ford Focus 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Chevrolet Suburban (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Chevrolet Suburban should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 994 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Ford Focus. 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, 1981 Chevrolet Suburban (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1981 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Focus 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 2004 Ford Focus
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model Suburban Focus
Year Released 1981 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4093 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 129 HP 113 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 160 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4400 RPM
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 2232 kg 1238 kg
Vehicle Length 5480 mm 4460 mm
Vehicle Width 1950 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1800 mm 1540 mm
Wheelbase Size 3300 mm 2720 mm