1987 Holden Commodore vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 26 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1987 Holden Commodore. (153 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1987 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 165 kg more than 1987 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Holden Commodore. (247 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Holden Commodore | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Commodore | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 247 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2537 mm |
