1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 30 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, 2011 BMW 120 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 792 kg more than 2011 BMW 120.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW 120. 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, 2011 BMW 120 (351 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 120 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 120 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 | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | BMW |
| Model | Suburban | 120 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2232 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2670 mm |
