2003 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SSR 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 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 76 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet SSR.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chevrolet SSR. 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, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SSR | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Chevrolet | GMC |
| Model | SSR | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5316 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3300 mm |
