1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 27 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 1,817 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (131 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. 2006 Mazda RX-8 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. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu Gemini | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Isuzu | Mazda |
| Model | Gemini | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
