2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1984 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 5,040 cc (8 cylinders), 1984 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1984 Holden Commodore. (169 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1984 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 350 kg more than 1984 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Holden Commodore. (361 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1984 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Holden |
| Model | Spider | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 5040 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2680 mm |
