1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2003 Holden Statesman
To start off, 2003 Holden Statesman 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Statesman (229 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Statesman weights approximately 459 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Statesman (375 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2003 Holden Statesman | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Commodore | Statesman |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3298 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2950 mm |
