1980 Holden Commodore vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 23 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 3,298 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Holden Commodore (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1980 Holden Commodore.
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, 2003 Mazda 3, 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 (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1980 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Holden Commodore | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Commodore | 3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3298 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
