1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 27 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 4,142 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Commodore weights approximately 21 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
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, 1981 Holden Commodore (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Holden | Mazda |
Model | Commodore | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4142 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |