1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 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 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1981 Holden Commodore.
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 Volvo S40, 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 Volvo S40 (301 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1981 Holden Commodore has manual transmission. 1981 Holden Commodore will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Holden Commodore | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Holden | Volvo |
Model | Commodore | S40 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1892 cc | 1948 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 78 HP | 0 HP |
Torque | 140 Nm | 301 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1375 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2570 mm |