1980 Holden Commodore vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 32 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1980 Holden Commodore. (102 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1980 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 105 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1980 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Holden Commodore | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Commodore | A |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2838 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2570 mm |
