1996 Ford Galaxy vs. 1980 Holden Commodore

To start off, 1996 Ford Galaxy is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 4,142 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Galaxy (143 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1980 Holden Commodore. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Galaxy should accelerate faster than 1980 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Galaxy weights approximately 368 kg more than 1980 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 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 1980 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Galaxy, 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, 1980 Holden Commodore (269 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Galaxy. (203 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Galaxy. 1980 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Galaxy has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Galaxy will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Ford Galaxy 1980 Holden Commodore
Make Ford Holden
Model Galaxy Commodore
Year Released 1996 1980
Body Type Minivan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2295 cc 4142 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 143 HP 134 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 203 Nm 269 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1724 kg 1356 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4710 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1740 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2670 mm