1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 2008 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Impala 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Impala (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Chevrolet Impala. 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, 2008 Chevrolet Impala (290 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Impala 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 Impala | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Suburban | Impala |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2810 mm |
