1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 1966 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1979 Isuzu Gemini is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 1,817 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Isuzu Gemini (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 311. (50 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Isuzu Gemini should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Wartburg 311 weights approximately 15 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, 1966 Wartburg 311, 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 (131 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Isuzu Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu Gemini | 1966 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Isuzu | Wartburg |
| Model | Gemini | 311 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 50 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2460 mm |
