1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2009 Volkswagen Kombi
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Kombi 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Kombi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Kombi (104 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Kombi should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Kombi weights approximately 1264 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 Kombi, 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 Kombi (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (131 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Kombi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu Gemini | 2009 Volkswagen Kombi | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | Kombi |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 2219 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3010 mm |
