1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2008 Kia Rio
To start off, 2008 Kia Rio is newer by 29 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, 2008 Kia Rio (96 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Rio weights approximately 173 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, 2008 Kia Rio, 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, 2008 Kia Rio (132 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (111 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu Gemini | 2008 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Isuzu | Kia |
| Model | Gemini | Rio |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 1491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1153 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2420 mm |
