1983 Holden Commodore vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (89 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1983 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1983 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 88 kg more than 1983 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Holden Commodore | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Commodore | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1891 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
