1989 Chevrolet APV vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1989 Chevrolet APV is newer by 8 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, 1981 GMC Suburban (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1989 Chevrolet APV. (118 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1989 Chevrolet APV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 805 kg more than 1989 Chevrolet APV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Chevrolet APV. 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 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Chevrolet APV. (237 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Chevrolet APV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Chevrolet APV | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Chevrolet | GMC |
| Model | APV | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 6210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 2395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3300 mm |
