1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2002 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2002 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 23 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 445 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, 2002 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2002 Hyundai Sonata (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (111 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. 2002 Hyundai Sonata 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. 2002 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu Gemini | 2002 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Isuzu | Hyundai |
| Model | Gemini | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2730 mm |
