1988 BMW 525 vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1988 BMW 525 is newer by 7 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, 1988 BMW 525 (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 790 kg more than 1988 BMW 525.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 525. 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 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW 525 | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
Make | BMW | GMC |
Model | 525 | Suburban |
Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2441 cc | 6210 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 239 Nm | 326 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 2395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1950 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1800 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3300 mm |