2003 Holden Astra vs. 1989 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Holden Commodore (168 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Holden Commodore weights approximately 160 kg more than 2003 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Holden Astra, 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, 1989 Holden Commodore (292 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra. 1989 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2003 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Holden Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Astra | 1989 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Astra | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2740 mm |
