2003 Acura CL vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2003 Acura CL is newer by 22 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 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura CL (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura CL weights approximately 420 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, 2003 Acura CL, 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, 2003 Acura CL (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 2003 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 1981 Holden Commodore has manual transmission. 1981 Holden Commodore will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura CL | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Acura | Holden |
| Model | CL | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 1892 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
