2002 Chrysler 300 vs. 1981 Holden Commodore

To start off, 2002 Chrysler 300 is newer by 21 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 3,523 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chrysler 300 (251 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 367 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, 2002 Chrysler 300, 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, 2002 Chrysler 300 (346 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Chrysler 300 1981 Holden Commodore
Make Chrysler Holden
Model 300 Commodore
Year Released 2002 1981
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3523 cc 3298 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 251 HP 111 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 346 Nm 231 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 2400 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1633 kg 1266 kg
Vehicle Length 5030 mm 4710 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2880 mm 2670 mm