1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2006 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2006 Nissan Xterra is newer by 25 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 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Xterra (265 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (102 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 70 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, 2006 Nissan Xterra, 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, 2006 Nissan Xterra (385 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2006 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Holden | Nissan |
| Model | Commodore | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2837 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
