1986 Holden Commodore vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 27 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1986 Holden Commodore. (116 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 17 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic, 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 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic 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. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Holden Commodore | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Holden | Chevrolet |
| Model | Commodore | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3298 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1237 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2685 mm |
