1962 DKW Junior vs. 1980 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 1980 Isuzu Gemini is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 DKW Junior. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 DKW Junior would be higher. At 1,582 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Isuzu Gemini (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1962 DKW Junior. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Isuzu Gemini should accelerate faster than 1962 DKW Junior. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Isuzu Gemini weights approximately 240 kg more than 1962 DKW Junior. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Isuzu Gemini 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 1980 Isuzu Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1962 DKW Junior, 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, 1980 Isuzu Gemini (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 DKW Junior. (73 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 Isuzu Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 DKW Junior.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 DKW Junior | 1980 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | DKW | Isuzu |
| Model | Junior | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2410 mm |
