2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1980 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (399 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 321 more horse power than 1980 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1980 Holden Commodore.
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 Ford Explorer (369 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Holden Commodore. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1980 Holden Commodore has manual transmission. 1980 Holden Commodore will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1980 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Explorer | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1890 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 399 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1730 mm |
