2003 Audi A8 vs. 1980 Holden Commodore

To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 5,042 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1980 Holden Commodore. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1980 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 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 1980 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8, 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, 1980 Holden Commodore (352 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 1980 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8. 1980 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Audi A8 1980 Holden Commodore
Make Audi Holden
Model A8 Commodore
Year Released 2003 1980
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2976 cc 5042 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 217 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 352 Nm
Torque RPM 8200 RPM 2600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1855 kg 1380 kg
Vehicle Length 5190 mm 4710 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 3080 mm 2670 mm