1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback is newer by 21 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, 2002 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 140 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 2002 Subaru Outback 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, 2002 Subaru Outback 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, 1981 Holden Commodore (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Subaru Outback. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Holden | Subaru |
| Model | Commodore | Outback |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4142 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |
