2002 Ford Focus vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2002 Ford Focus 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 2,837 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (102 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Focus weights approximately 55 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 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (325 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Focus 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 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Focus 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 Ford Focus | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Focus | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2837 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
