2003 Ford 427 vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2003 Ford 427 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 6,997 cc (10 cylinders), 2003 Ford 427 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford 427 (582 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 453 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford 427 should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Ford 427. 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 Ford 427 (704 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 378 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford 427 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford 427 | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | 427 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6997 cc | 6210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 582 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 704 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
