2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 409 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 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Holden |
| Model | Malibu | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1892 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2670 mm |
