1981 GMC Suburban vs. 2004 GMC Safari
To start off, 2004 GMC Safari is newer by 23 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 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 GMC Safari (188 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 450 kg more than 2004 GMC Safari.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 GMC Safari. 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, 2004 GMC Safari (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 GMC Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 GMC Suburban | 2004 GMC Safari | |
| Make | GMC | GMC |
| Model | Suburban | Safari |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6210 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 326 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2395 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2830 mm |
