1997 Holden Commodore vs. 1988 Holden Barina
To start off, 1997 Holden Commodore is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Holden Barina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Holden Barina would be higher. At 4,987 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Holden Commodore (225 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1988 Holden Barina. (67 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1988 Holden Barina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Holden Commodore weights approximately 820 kg more than 1988 Holden Barina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1997 Holden Commodore (395 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Holden Barina. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Holden Barina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Holden Commodore | 1988 Holden Barina | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Commodore | Barina |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4987 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 395 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2250 mm |
