1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 32 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (197 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Kia Optima weights approximately 294 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, 2013 Kia Optima, 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, 2013 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2013 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2013 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Holden | Kia |
| Model | Commodore | Optima |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1892 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2795 mm |
