1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2009 Kia Magentis
To start off, 2009 Kia Magentis 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 2,655 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Magentis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Magentis (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Magentis should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Magentis weights approximately 405 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, 2009 Kia Magentis, 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 Kia Magentis (247 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Magentis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 2009 Kia Magentis 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. 2009 Kia Magentis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2009 Kia Magentis | |
| Make | Holden | Kia |
| Model | Commodore | Magentis |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1892 cc | 2655 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 247 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2730 mm |
