1981 GMC Suburban vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 25 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, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 780 kg more than 2006 Saturn ION.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Saturn ION. 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 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 GMC Suburban | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | GMC | Saturn |
| Model | Suburban | ION |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2230 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2630 mm |
