1988 Holden Commodore vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 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 2,961 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Holden Commodore (153 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1988 Holden Commodore.
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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 1988 Holden Commodore (247 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Holden Commodore | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Commodore | 3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2961 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 247 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
