1998 Dodge Ram vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1998 Dodge Ram 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 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 325 kg more than 1998 Dodge Ram.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Dodge Ram. 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 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram. 1981 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Ram 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 Dodge Ram | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
Make | Dodge | GMC |
Model | Ram | Suburban |
Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3905 cc | 6210 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 326 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 2395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1950 mm |
Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1800 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 3300 mm |