1997 Holden Nova vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1997 Holden Nova is newer by 16 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, 1997 Holden Nova (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Commodore weights approximately 70 kg more than 1997 Holden Nova.
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, 1997 Holden Nova, 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, 1981 Holden Commodore (141 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Holden Nova | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Nova | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1892 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2670 mm |
