1981 Holden Commodore vs. 1999 Holden Astra
To start off, 1999 Holden Astra is newer by 18 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, 1999 Holden Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (102 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Commodore weights approximately 55 kg more than 1999 Holden Astra.
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, 1999 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, 1999 Holden Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1999 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 1999 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Commodore | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2837 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2610 mm |
