2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 4,142 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Holden Commodore (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 279 kg more than 1981 Holden Commodore.
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 PT Cruiser, 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 PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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:
| 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Chrysler | Holden |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 4142 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2670 mm |
