2009 Chevrolet Silverado vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado is newer by 28 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado (295 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 964 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Silverado.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado (414 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Silverado | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Chevrolet | GMC |
| Model | Silverado | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4800 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 295 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 414 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5850 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3650 mm | 3300 mm |
