2009 Cadillac CTS vs. 1981 Holden Commodore

To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS is newer by 28 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, 2009 Cadillac CTS (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 440 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.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Cadillac CTS (300 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2009 Cadillac CTS has manual transmission. 2009 Cadillac CTS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Cadillac CTS 1981 Holden Commodore
Make Cadillac Holden
Model CTS Commodore
Year Released 2009 1981
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3175 cc 4142 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 215 HP 134 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 270 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1790 kg 1350 kg
Vehicle Length 4830 mm 4710 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2670 mm