1992 Holden Barina vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1992 Holden Barina is newer by 11 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 4,142 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Holden Commodore (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1992 Holden Barina. (67 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1992 Holden Barina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Commodore weights approximately 564 kg more than 1992 Holden Barina. 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, 1992 Holden Barina, 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 (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Holden Barina. (102 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Holden Barina. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 1992 Holden Barina has manual transmission. 1992 Holden Barina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Holden Barina | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Barina | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 4142 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 786 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2670 mm |
