2008 BMW X5 vs. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 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 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 41 kg more than 2008 BMW X5.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW X5. 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, 2008 BMW X5 (440 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 1981 Chevrolet Suburban | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | X5 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 4093 cc |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2191 kg | 2232 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3300 mm |
