1996 Opel Astra vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra 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 1,892 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Holden Commodore (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 100 kg more than 1981 Holden Commodore.
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 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, 1996 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra 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:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Opel | Holden |
| Model | Astra | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1892 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2670 mm |
