2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 398 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (102 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Commodore weights approximately 104 kg more than 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500.
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 Ford Shelby GT 500, 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 Ford Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 459 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
Make | Ford | Holden |
Model | Shelby GT 500 | Commodore |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5409 cc | 2837 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 500 HP | 102 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 651 Nm | 192 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |