2003 Audi A8 vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 22 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, 2003 Audi A8 (276 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 515 kg more than 2003 Audi A8.
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, 2003 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Audi | GMC |
| Model | A8 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 6210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 2395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3300 mm |
