2004 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 23 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 4,142 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Commodore weights approximately 25 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147.
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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147, 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 (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 has manual transmission. 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 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:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Holden |
| Model | 147 | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4142 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2670 mm |
