1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (102 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 330 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Commodore | C |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2837 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2920 mm |
