1986 Holden Commodore vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 22 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 4,987 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Holden Commodore (164 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 55 kg more than 1986 Holden Commodore.
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, 2008 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, 1986 Holden Commodore (324 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1986 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Holden Commodore | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Commodore | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4987 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 324 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
