2003 BMW 318 vs. 1980 Holden Commodore

To start off, 2003 BMW 318 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 1,890 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1980 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1980 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 318 weights approximately 230 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.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 BMW 318 (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Holden Commodore.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW 318 1980 Holden Commodore
Make BMW Holden
Model 318 Commodore
Year Released 2003 1980
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 1890 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 113 HP 78 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 140 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1390 kg 1160 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4710 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2670 mm