1978 Holden Gemini vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden Gemini would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1978 Holden Gemini. (66 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 509 kg more than 1978 Holden Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Holden 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 1978 Holden Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40, 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Gemini. (113 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Holden Gemini | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Holden | Volvo |
| Model | Gemini | S40 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
