2005 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 24 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 214 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 2005 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Holden Commodore. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Passat | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Holden |
| Model | Passat | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1892 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
