1991 Opel Astra vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 2,837 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Holden Commodore (102 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Commodore weights approximately 160 kg more than 1991 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Opel Astra, 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, 1981 Holden Commodore (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (135 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Opel Astra | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Opel | Holden |
| Model | Astra | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2837 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2670 mm |
