2008 Ford Taurus X vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus X is newer by 27 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, 2008 Ford Taurus X (264 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 1153 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus X.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Ford Taurus X. 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, 2008 Ford Taurus X (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus X | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Taurus X | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Crossover | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3300 mm |
