1996 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina is newer by 15 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 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina (200 HP) has 98 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (102 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Lumina weights approximately 310 kg more than 1981 Holden Commodore. 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, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina, 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, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina (311 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Lumina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Lumina | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Holden |
| Model | Lumina | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 2837 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 102 HP |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2670 mm |
