1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 32 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 1,816 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Isuzu Gemini (120 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Isuzu Gemini should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 349 kg more than 1979 Isuzu Gemini.
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, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (162 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1816 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
