2002 Holden Vectra vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2002 Holden Vectra 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 3,298 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Holden Vectra (209 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Holden Vectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Holden Vectra weights approximately 244 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 Holden Vectra, 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 Vectra (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Holden Vectra 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 Holden Vectra has manual transmission. 2002 Holden Vectra 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 Holden Vectra | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Vectra | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 3298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
