1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2006 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2006 Smart ForFour 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 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart ForFour (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Smart ForFour weights approximately 28 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, 2006 Smart ForFour, 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, 2006 Smart ForFour (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. 2006 Smart ForFour 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 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu Gemini | 2006 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Isuzu | Smart |
| Model | Gemini | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 942 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
