* R10 and R20: These refer to the *rear axle* capacity and therefore the overall chassis strength. An R10 was a lighter-duty chassis, suitable for less towing and carrying capacity. The R20 was a heavier-duty chassis built to handle more weight. The R designation usually points to a rear-wheel-drive truck or SUV.
* V10 and V20 (incorrect for 1988): V10 and V20 engines (with a V referring to V-configuration) didn't appear in the Chevrolet Suburban until much later models. A 1988 Suburban would *not* have a V10 or V20 engine. Someone might be misremembering or misinterpreting the information. 1988 Suburbans used V8 engines (like the small-block 5.0L or 5.7L, or possibly a larger-displacement V8 depending on the trim level).
In summary: The key difference in a 1988 Suburban boils down to the R10 vs R20 chassis. This determined its towing capacity, payload capacity, and overall strength. The V10 and V20 engine designations are simply incorrect for that model year.