1984 Holden Commodore vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1984 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 240 kg more than 1984 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Holden Commodore | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Commodore | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1892 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
