1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2001 Holden Astra
To start off, 2001 Holden Astra is newer by 20 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 1,892 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 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 10 kg more than 2001 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, 2001 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, 2001 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (141 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 2001 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. 2001 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2001 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Commodore | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1892 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2610 mm |
