1988 Holden Commodore vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 5,044 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (250 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1988 Holden Commodore. (164 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1988 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 285 kg more than 1988 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Holden Commodore. (324 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Holden Commodore | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Holden | Saab |
| Model | Commodore | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5044 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 324 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2610 mm |
