1982 Holden Commodore vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1982 Holden Commodore is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,892 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Holden Commodore (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Holden Commodore weights approximately 340 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1982 Holden Commodore (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1982 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Holden Commodore | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Commodore | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1892 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
