1971 Renault 12 vs. 1983 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 1983 Isuzu Gemini is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,817 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Isuzu Gemini (76 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Isuzu Gemini should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Isuzu Gemini weights approximately 160 kg more than 1971 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Isuzu Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Renault 12, 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, 1983 Isuzu Gemini (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Isuzu Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12. 1983 Isuzu Gemini has automatic transmission and 1971 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1971 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Isuzu Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Renault 12 | 1983 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Renault | Isuzu |
| Model | 12 | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1817 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
