2009 Cadillac DTS vs. 1989 Holden Commodore

To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac DTS (292 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1989 Holden Commodore. (168 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 325 kg more than 1989 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1989 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 1989 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS, 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 Cadillac DTS (391 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Commodore. (292 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Commodore. 2009 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 1989 Holden Commodore has manual transmission. 1989 Holden Commodore will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Cadillac DTS 1989 Holden Commodore
Make Cadillac Holden
Model DTS Commodore
Year Released 2009 1989
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4565 cc 3791 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 292 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 391 Nm 292 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1635 kg 1310 kg
Vehicle Length 5280 mm 4860 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2740 mm