2009 Chevrolet Nubira vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Nubira 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 1,892 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Nubira (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Nubira should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Nubira weights approximately 130 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 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, 2009 Chevrolet Nubira, 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 Chevrolet Nubira (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (141 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Nubira will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Nubira | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Holden |
| Model | Nubira | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1892 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2670 mm |
