2004 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1980 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 24 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 3,298 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1980 Holden Commodore. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Holden Commodore weights approximately 60 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1980 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 1980 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1980 Holden Commodore (231 Nm) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (166 Nm). This means 1980 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1980 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Holden |
| Model | New Beetle | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2670 mm |
