1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2003 Holden Rodeo
To start off, 2003 Holden Rodeo is newer by 22 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 3,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Holden Rodeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Rodeo (145 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Rodeo should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Because 2003 Holden Rodeo 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, 2003 Holden Rodeo 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, 2003 Holden Rodeo (280 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (141 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Rodeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 2003 Holden Rodeo 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. 2003 Holden Rodeo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2003 Holden Rodeo | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Commodore | Rodeo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1892 cc | 3494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3060 mm |
