1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 4,142 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 805 kg more than 1981 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Holden Commodore. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercedes-Benz ML (370 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML has manual transmission. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Commodore | ML |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4142 cc | 2606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
