1999 Holden Astra vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1999 Holden Astra is newer by 18 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 4,142 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Holden Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Commodore weights approximately 185 kg more than 1999 Holden Astra.
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, 1999 Holden 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, 1981 Holden Commodore (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Holden Astra. (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Holden Astra. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 1999 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 1999 Holden 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:
| 1999 Holden Astra | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Astra | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4142 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2670 mm |
