1981 Holden Commodore vs. 1995 Saturn SL
To start off, 1995 Saturn SL is newer by 14 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 @ 4200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1995 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1995 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Commodore weights approximately 295 kg more than 1995 Saturn SL. 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, 1995 Saturn SL, 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 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Saturn SL. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 1995 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1995 Saturn SL 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 | 1995 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Holden | Saturn |
| Model | Commodore | SL |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4142 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
