1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 17 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 1,816 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (120 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 55 kg more than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 Lotus Elan, 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (162 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Isuzu Gemini | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Isuzu | Lotus |
Model | Gemini | Elan |
Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1816 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2260 mm |