1986 Holden Astra vs. 1980 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1986 Holden Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 2,838 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Holden Commodore (102 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1986 Holden Astra. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Holden Commodore weights approximately 325 kg more than 1986 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Holden Astra, 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, 1980 Holden Commodore (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Astra. (124 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1980 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Holden Astra | 1980 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Astra | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2838 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2670 mm |
