1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 2009 Ford E-150
To start off, 2009 Ford E-150 is newer by 28 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 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford E-150 (225 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford E-150 should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 1429 kg more than 2009 Ford E-150.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Ford E-150. 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, 2009 Ford E-150 (389 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford E-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chevrolet Suburban | 2009 Ford E-150 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Suburban | E-150 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6210 cc | 4606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 326 Nm | 389 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2395 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 2060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 3510 mm |
