1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 310 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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (111 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu Gemini | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |
