1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 31 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 755 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 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Holden Commodore. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 BMW X3 (406 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 2012 BMW X3 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. 2012 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Holden | BMW |
| Model | Commodore | X3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1892 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2810 mm |
