1981 GMC Suburban vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 30 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, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 735 kg more than 2011 BMW 325.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW 325. 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 325. (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 325. 1981 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 325 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 | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | GMC | BMW |
| Model | Suburban | 325 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2230 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2770 mm |
