2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1978 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 GMC Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 GMC Suburban weights approximately 1013 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Because 1978 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1978 GMC Suburban (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1978 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1978 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Chevrolet | GMC |
| Model | Cavalier | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 242 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 2200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 3300 mm |
