1980 Chevrolet El Camino vs. 1997 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1997 Holden Commodore is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet El Camino 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) has 90 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (135 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino weights approximately 5 kg more than 1997 Holden Commodore.
Because 1997 Holden Commodore is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (271 Nm). This means 1997 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino has automatic transmission and 1997 Holden Commodore has manual transmission. 1997 Holden Commodore will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chevrolet El Camino | 1997 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Holden |
| Model | El Camino | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4400 cc | 4987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 395 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2950 mm |
