1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2007 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2007 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 26 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 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Hyundai Sonata (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 273 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, 2007 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2007 Hyundai Sonata (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (141 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2007 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Holden | Hyundai |
| Model | Commodore | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1892 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 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 | 1160 kg | 1433 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2730 mm |
