1983 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 1981 BMW M1

To start off, 1983 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW M1 would be higher. At 7,445 cc (8 cylinders), 1983 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1983 Chevrolet Suburban. (227 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1983 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1981 BMW M1.

Because 1983 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW M1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Chevrolet 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, 1983 Chevrolet Suburban (488 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1983 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW M1. 1983 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW M1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Chevrolet Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1983 Chevrolet Suburban 1981 BMW M1
Make Chevrolet BMW
Model Suburban M1
Year Released 1983 1981
Body Type SUV Coupe
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 7445 cc 3453 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 227 HP 273 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 488 Nm 330 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 5000 RPM
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 2330 kg 1300 kg
Vehicle Length 5480 mm 4370 mm
Vehicle Width 1950 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1800 mm 1140 mm
Wheelbase Size 3300 mm 2570 mm