1981 GMC Suburban vs. 2004 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2004 Volvo XC90 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo XC90 (268 HP) has 138 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (130 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 124 kg more than 2004 Volvo XC90.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volvo XC90 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 GMC Suburban | 2004 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | GMC | Volvo |
| Model | Suburban | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 2230 kg | 2106 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2870 mm |
