1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 17 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 835 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW Z3. 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban. 1981 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | BMW | GMC |
| Model | Z3 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3300 mm |
