2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 267 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 585 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 Dodge Ram, 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 Dodge Ram (510 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 2008 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 1981 Holden Commodore has manual transmission. 1981 Holden Commodore will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Dodge | Holden |
| Model | Ram | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 1892 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6300 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2670 mm |
