1986 Holden Commodore vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,298 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1986 Holden Commodore. (116 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 78 kg more than 1986 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1986 Holden Commodore (232 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1986 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1986 Holden Commodore has manual transmission. 1986 Holden Commodore will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Holden Commodore | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Commodore | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3298 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2470 mm |
