2003 GMC Safari vs. 1980 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2003 GMC Safari is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,292 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 GMC Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 GMC Safari (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1980 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 1980 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 GMC Suburban weights approximately 275 kg more than 2003 GMC Safari.
Because 1980 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 GMC Safari. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 GMC Safari (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 GMC Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 GMC Safari | 1980 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | GMC | GMC |
| Model | Safari | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Van | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4292 cc | 4092 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3300 mm |
