2006 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 25 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, 1981 Holden Commodore (134 HP) has 26 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Optra. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 400 kg more than 1981 Holden Commodore.
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, 2006 Chevrolet Optra, 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 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Optra. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Optra. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2006 Chevrolet Optra has manual transmission. 2006 Chevrolet Optra 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:
| 2006 Chevrolet Optra | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Holden |
| Model | Optra | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4142 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2670 mm |
