2003 Ford Ka vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka 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 1,892 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Commodore weights approximately 100 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka.
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 Ford Ka, 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, 1981 Holden Commodore (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Ka | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1892 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2670 mm |
