1999 GMC Safari vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1999 GMC Safari is newer by 18 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, 1999 GMC Safari (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 440 kg more than 1999 GMC Safari.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 GMC Safari. 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, 1999 GMC Safari (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 GMC Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
1999 GMC Safari | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
Make | GMC | GMC |
Model | Safari | Suburban |
Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
Body Type | Van | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4291 cc | 6210 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 338 Nm | 326 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 2395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 5480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1950 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1800 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3300 mm |