1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf 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 2,837 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (102 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster 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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (235 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (192 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
Make | Volkswagen | Holden |
Model | Golf | Commodore |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2801 cc | 2837 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 172 HP | 102 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 235 Nm | 192 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2670 mm |