1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1997 Hyundai Sonata 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 Hyundai Sonata (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 100 kg more than 1981 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Hyundai Sonata, 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 (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Hyundai Sonata | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
Make | Hyundai | Holden |
Model | Sonata | Commodore |
Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1892 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 78 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |