1981 GMC Suburban vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 1997 Mazda 323 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 1015 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mazda 323. 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 (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323. 1981 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 GMC Suburban | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | GMC | Mazda |
| Model | Suburban | 323 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2230 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2620 mm |
