1981 Holden Commodore vs. 1986 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1986 Pontiac Firebird 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, 1986 Pontiac Firebird (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (102 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1986 Pontiac Firebird (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1986 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 1986 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Holden | Pontiac |
| Model | Commodore | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2837 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2580 mm |
