2008 BMW 523 vs. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban

To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chevrolet Suburban would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 742 kg more than 2008 BMW 523.

Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1981 Chevrolet Suburban (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 523 1981 Chevrolet Suburban
Make BMW Chevrolet
Model 523 Suburban
Year Released 2008 1981
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 4093 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 129 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 285 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 2232 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 5480 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1950 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1800 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 3300 mm