1981 GMC Suburban vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 897 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban. 1981 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle 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 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Suburban | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2230 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2537 mm |
