1981 Holden Commodore vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 4,142 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Holden Commodore (134 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Commodore weights approximately 410 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1981 Holden Commodore (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Holden Commodore | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
Model | Commodore | Passat |
Year Released | 1981 | 1984 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4142 cc | 1296 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 270 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2560 mm |