2009 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 28 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 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Suburban (307 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Suburban should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Chevrolet Suburban. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Suburban (335 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Suburban | 1981 Chevrolet Suburban | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Suburban | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 6210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 307 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 5660 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 3300 mm |
