1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 24 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (102 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Commodore weights approximately 29 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1981 Holden Commodore (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier 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. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Holden | Chevrolet |
| Model | Commodore | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2837 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2570 mm |
