2003 BMW 520 vs. 1980 Chevrolet Suburban
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet Suburban would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 560 kg more than 2003 BMW 520.
Because 1980 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Chevrolet 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, 1980 Chevrolet Suburban (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1980 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 1980 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Chevrolet Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1980 Chevrolet Suburban | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 520 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3300 mm |
