1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 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 3,298 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 214 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 Mazda 3, 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 (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Commodore | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3298 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
