1983 GMC Suburban vs. 2009 Kia Forte

To start off, 2009 Kia Forte is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 7,446 cc (8 cylinders), 1983 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 GMC Suburban (227 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2009 Kia Forte. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Forte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 GMC Suburban weights approximately 1036 kg more than 2009 Kia Forte. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1983 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Kia Forte. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1983 GMC Suburban (488 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Forte. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Forte. 1983 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Forte has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Forte will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1983 GMC Suburban 2009 Kia Forte
Make GMC Kia
Model Suburban Forte
Year Released 1983 2009
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 7446 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 227 HP 173 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 488 Nm 228 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 2330 kg 1294 kg
Vehicle Length 5480 mm 4529 mm
Vehicle Width 1950 mm 1775 mm
Vehicle Height 1800 mm 1461 mm
Wheelbase Size 3300 mm 2649 mm