2002 Holden Astra vs. 1997 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2002 Holden Astra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 4,987 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Holden Commodore (225 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2002 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 2002 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Holden Commodore weights approximately 400 kg more than 2002 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1997 Holden Commodore (395 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Holden Astra | 1997 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Astra | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 395 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2950 mm |
