1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 1998 Mazda 626
To start off, 1998 Mazda 626 is newer by 19 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 626 (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 626 weights approximately 239 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, 1998 Mazda 626, 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, 1998 Mazda 626 (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (131 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu Gemini | 1998 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Isuzu | Mazda |
| Model | Gemini | 626 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
