1971 Ford 17 vs. 1987 Holden Gemini
To start off, 1987 Holden Gemini is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford 17 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Ford 17 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Holden Gemini (72 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1971 Ford 17. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Holden Gemini should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Ford 17 weights approximately 211 kg more than 1987 Holden Gemini.
Because 1971 Ford 17 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 1971 Ford 17. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Holden Gemini, 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, 1987 Holden Gemini (116 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford 17. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1987 Holden Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford 17.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford 17 | 1987 Holden Gemini | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | 17 | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 864 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
