1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Isuzu Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Isuzu Gemini would be higher. At 2,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Isuzu Gemini (120 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Isuzu Gemini should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 165 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, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am, 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, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (162 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1986 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1979 Isuzu Gemini has manual transmission. 1979 Isuzu Gemini will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu Gemini | 1986 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Isuzu | Pontiac |
| Model | Gemini | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1816 cc | 2471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2630 mm |
