1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 289 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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (106 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu Gemini | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
