1999 GMC Sierra vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1999 GMC Sierra 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 Sierra (197 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 620 kg more than 1999 GMC Sierra.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Sierra (352 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban. 1981 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 1999 GMC Sierra has manual transmission. 1999 GMC Sierra 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:
| 1999 GMC Sierra | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | GMC | GMC |
| Model | Sierra | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 6210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 352 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 2395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 3300 mm |
