1980 Holden Commodore vs. 1995 Volvo 850

To start off, 1995 Volvo 850 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 1,983 cc (5 cylinders), 1995 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Volvo 850 (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1980 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1980 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Volvo 850 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1980 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 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 1980 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Volvo 850, 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, 1995 Volvo 850 (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1995 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Holden Commodore.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Holden Commodore 1995 Volvo 850
Make Holden Volvo
Model Commodore 850
Year Released 1980 1995
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1890 cc 1983 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 78 HP 124 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 4800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1160 kg 1335 kg
Vehicle Length 4710 mm 4670 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2670 mm