1981 GMC Suburban vs. 2013 Kia Forte

To start off, 2013 Kia Forte is newer by 32 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, 2013 Kia Forte (154 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 1153 kg more than 2013 Kia Forte.

Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 Kia Forte. 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 (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Kia Forte. (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Kia Forte. 1981 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 2013 Kia Forte has manual transmission. 2013 Kia Forte 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 2013 Kia Forte
Make GMC Kia
Model Suburban Forte
Year Released 1981 2013
Body Type SUV Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6210 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 129 HP 154 HP
Engine RPM 3600 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 326 Nm 195 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4300 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Vehicle Weight 2395 kg 1242 kg
Vehicle Length 5480 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1950 mm 1765 mm
Vehicle Height 1800 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 3300 mm 2650 mm