2008 Chrysler Pacifica vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2008 Chrysler Pacifica is newer by 27 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, 2008 Chrysler Pacifica (253 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler Pacifica should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler Pacifica weights approximately 465 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 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, 2008 Chrysler Pacifica, 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, 2008 Chrysler Pacifica (356 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler Pacifica will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler Pacifica | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Chrysler | Holden |
| Model | Pacifica | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 4142 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 356 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2670 mm |
