1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 32 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 957 kg more than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. 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, 1981 Chevrolet Suburban (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (201 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 2013 Chevrolet Sonic has manual transmission. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic 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 | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Suburban | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2232 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1506 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2525 mm |
