1979 Holden Gemini vs. 1999 Mazda 121
To start off, 1999 Mazda 121 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Holden Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Holden Gemini would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Holden Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda 121 (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1979 Holden Gemini. (66 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1979 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda 121 weights approximately 46 kg more than 1979 Holden Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Holden Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mazda 121, 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, 1979 Holden Gemini (113 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Holden Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Holden Gemini | 1999 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Gemini | 121 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1241 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2460 mm |
