2003 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 5,327 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban (282 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 1240 kg more than 1978 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Chrysler 1609. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban (441 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Suburban | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5327 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 9 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2330 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5580 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2670 mm |
