1981 GMC Suburban vs. 1973 Chrysler Centura
To start off, 1981 GMC Suburban is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 GMC Suburban (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Centura. (118 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 1279 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Centura. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Chrysler Centura. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 GMC 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 GMC Suburban (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Centura. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Centura.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 GMC Suburban | 1973 Chrysler Centura | |
| Make | GMC | Chrysler |
| Model | Suburban | Centura |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6210 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 326 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2395 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2680 mm |
