2002 BMW M3 vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 21 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, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 635 kg more than 2002 BMW M3.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 BMW M3. 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, 2002 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | BMW | GMC |
| Model | M3 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3300 mm |
