2003 Acura RSX vs. 1986 Holden Commodore

To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,298 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1986 Holden Commodore. (116 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura RSX weights approximately 2 kg more than 1986 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1986 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 1986 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX, 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, 1986 Holden Commodore (232 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RSX. 1986 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2003 Acura RSX has manual transmission. 2003 Acura RSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Acura RSX 1986 Holden Commodore
Make Acura Holden
Model RSX Commodore
Year Released 2003 1986
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 3298 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 160 HP 116 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 191 Nm 232 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1222 kg 1220 kg
Vehicle Length 4380 mm 4720 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2540 mm 2680 mm