1997 Chevrolet Venture vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Venture is newer by 16 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, 1997 Chevrolet Venture (183 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Venture should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 485 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Venture.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Venture. 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, both vehicles can yield 285 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Venture | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Chevrolet | GMC |
| Model | Venture | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 3300 mm |
