1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2008 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra 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 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Spectra weights approximately 569 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 Spectra, 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 Spectra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Spectra 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 Spectra | |
| Make | Isuzu | Kia |
| Model | Gemini | Spectra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 942 kg | 1511 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
