1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2009 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 28 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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster 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, 2009 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (141 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2009 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Holden | Hyundai |
| Model | Commodore | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1892 cc | 1975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |
