2002 Holden Barina vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2002 Holden Barina 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 1,892 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Holden Barina (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Holden Barina should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Commodore weights approximately 100 kg more than 2002 Holden Barina.
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 Holden Barina, 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 Holden Barina (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (141 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Holden Barina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Holden Barina | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Barina | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1892 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2670 mm |
