2009 Cadillac Escalade vs. 1981 Holden Commodore

To start off, 2009 Cadillac Escalade 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 6,161 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac Escalade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac Escalade (403 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 325 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 1449 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 2009 Cadillac Escalade is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Holden Commodore. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac Escalade will offer significantly more control. 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 Escalade (565 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 425 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac Escalade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 2009 Cadillac Escalade 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. 2009 Cadillac Escalade will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Cadillac Escalade 1981 Holden Commodore
Make Cadillac Holden
Model Escalade Commodore
Year Released 2009 1981
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6161 cc 1892 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 403 HP 78 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 565 Nm 140 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 7 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2609 kg 1160 kg
Vehicle Length 5650 mm 4710 mm
Vehicle Width 2020 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1900 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2670 mm