2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 28 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 4,142 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1980 Holden Commodore. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 324 kg more than 1980 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 (269 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1980 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1980 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Chrysler | Holden |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2428 cc | 4142 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 269 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
