1987 Holden Commodore vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Holden Commodore (153 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 16 kg more than 1987 Holden Commodore.
Because 1987 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 1987 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1987 Holden Commodore (247 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1987 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Holden Commodore | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Commodore | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 247 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2590 mm |
