1980 Holden Commodore vs. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier

To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 16 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 2,838 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1980 Holden Commodore. (102 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1980 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Holden Commodore weights approximately 29 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier.

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, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1980 Holden Commodore (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1980 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1980 Holden Commodore has manual transmission. 1980 Holden Commodore will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Holden Commodore 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
Make Holden Chevrolet
Model Commodore Cavalier
Year Released 1980 1996
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2838 cc 2189 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 102 HP 120 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 192 Nm 183 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1220 kg 1191 kg
Vehicle Length 4710 mm 4600 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2570 mm