1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra 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 2,837 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (178 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (102 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 165 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, 2008 Opel Astra, 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, 2008 Opel Astra (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Holden | Opel |
| Model | Commodore | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2837 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
