2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 25 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 895 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW Z4. 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, 1981 GMC Suburban (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW Z4. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW Z4. 1981 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | BMW | GMC |
| Model | Z4 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3300 mm |
