1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 30 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (101 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 1312 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (148 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (106 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta 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. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu Gemini | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
