1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 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 2,837 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S80 (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (102 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 396 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 Volvo S80, 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 Volvo S80 (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Holden | Volvo |
| Model | Commodore | S80 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2837 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1616 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2800 mm |
