1964 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1997 Holden Commodore

To start off, 1997 Holden Commodore is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 4,987 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Holden Commodore (225 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Holden Commodore weights approximately 836 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1997 Holden Commodore (395 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 311 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1997 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. 1997 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite has manual transmission. 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1964 Austin-Healey Sprite 1997 Holden Commodore
Make Austin-Healey Holden
Model Sprite Commodore
Year Released 1964 1997
Body Type Roadster Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1098 cc 4987 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 59 HP 225 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 84 Nm 395 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 714 kg 1550 kg
Vehicle Length 3470 mm 5050 mm
Vehicle Width 1350 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1270 mm 1560 mm
Wheelbase Size 2040 mm 2950 mm