1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 23 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, 2004 Opel Vectra (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Vectra weights approximately 173 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 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, 2004 Opel Vectra, 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, 2004 Opel Vectra (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Holden | Opel |
| Model | Commodore | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4142 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1523 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2500 mm |
