1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 2008 Volvo C30
To start off, 2008 Volvo C30 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 Volvo C30 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 885 kg more than 2008 Volvo C30.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volvo C30. 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 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 2008 Volvo C30 has manual transmission. 2008 Volvo C30 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 | 2008 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Suburban | C30 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2519 cc |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2232 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2650 mm |
