1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2011 Saab 9-4X
To start off, 2011 Saab 9-4X is newer by 30 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, 2011 Saab 9-4X (265 HP @ 6950 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Saab 9-4X 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, 2011 Saab 9-4X, 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, 2011 Saab 9-4X (302 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Saab 9-4X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2011 Saab 9-4X | |
| Make | Holden | Saab |
| Model | Commodore | 9-4X |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4142 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6950 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4829 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1679 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2807 mm |
