1969 Dodge Challenger vs. 1953 Studebaker Commander
To start off, 1969 Dodge Challenger is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Studebaker Commander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Studebaker Commander would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Dodge Challenger (156 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1953 Studebaker Commander. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1953 Studebaker Commander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Studebaker Commander weights approximately 247 kg more than 1969 Dodge Challenger.
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, 1969 Dodge Challenger (352 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Studebaker Commander. (258 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1969 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Studebaker Commander.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Dodge Challenger | 1953 Studebaker Commander | |
| Make | Dodge | Studebaker |
| Model | Challenger | Commander |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1953 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 3809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 352 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1692 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3070 mm |
