1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1979 Isuzu Gemini is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Isuzu Gemini (93 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Isuzu Gemini should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Wartburg 312 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1979 Isuzu Gemini.
Because 1979 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 1979 Isuzu Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Wartburg 312, 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 Isuzu Gemini (136 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1979 Isuzu Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu Gemini | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Isuzu | Wartburg |
| Model | Gemini | 312 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 40 L |
