1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 2008 Chevrolet Express
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Express is newer by 27 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Express (301 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 971 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Express.
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, 2008 Chevrolet Express (441 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chevrolet Suburban | 2008 Chevrolet Express | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Suburban | Express |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 5300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2232 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 5700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 2080 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 3440 mm |
