1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 20 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), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 276 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (131 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu Gemini | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2630 mm |
