1981 Holden Commodore vs. 1989 Holden Nova
To start off, 1989 Holden Nova is newer by 8 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 3,298 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Holden Commodore (111 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (81 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Commodore weights approximately 251 kg more than 1989 Holden Nova. 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, 1989 Holden Nova, 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 (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 1989 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1989 Holden Nova 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 | 1989 Holden Nova | |
Make | Holden | Holden |
Model | Commodore | Nova |
Year Released | 1981 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3298 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 111 HP | 81 HP |
Torque | 231 Nm | 118 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1015 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2440 mm |