1981 Holden Commodore vs. 1986 Holden Astra
To start off, 1986 Holden Astra is newer by 5 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 2,837 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Holden Commodore (102 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1986 Holden Astra. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Commodore weights approximately 325 kg more than 1986 Holden Astra. 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, 1986 Holden Astra, 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 (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Astra. (124 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Astra. 1986 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 1981 Holden Commodore has manual transmission. 1981 Holden Commodore will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Holden Commodore | 1986 Holden Astra | |
Make | Holden | Holden |
Model | Commodore | Astra |
Year Released | 1981 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2837 cc | 1597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 102 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 192 Nm | 124 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 895 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2420 mm |