1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2012 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2012 Opel Insignia 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 1,892 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Insignia (177 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Insignia 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, 2012 Opel Insignia, 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, 2012 Opel Insignia (230 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2012 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | Holden | Opel |
| Model | Commodore | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1892 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2200 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2737 mm |
