1981 GMC Suburban vs. 2009 Saturn Sky
To start off, 2009 Saturn Sky is newer by 28 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, 2009 Saturn Sky (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Sky should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 1051 kg more than 2009 Saturn Sky.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Saturn Sky. 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, 2009 Saturn Sky (353 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Sky will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban. 1981 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 2009 Saturn Sky has manual transmission. 2009 Saturn Sky 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 | 2009 Saturn Sky | |
Make | GMC | Saturn |
Model | Suburban | Sky |
Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6210 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 260 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 326 Nm | 353 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 2395 kg | 1344 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2420 mm |