1971 Holden Statesman vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1981 Holden Commodore is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 3,298 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Holden Statesman (133 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Holden Statesman weights approximately 220 kg more than 1981 Holden Commodore. 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, 1971 Holden Statesman (264 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1971 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Holden Statesman | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Statesman | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3298 cc | 1892 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2670 mm |
