1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2012 Daihatsu Copen
To start off, 2012 Daihatsu Copen is newer by 33 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, 2012 Daihatsu Copen (67 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Daihatsu Copen should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Isuzu Gemini weights approximately 75 kg more than 2012 Daihatsu Copen.
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, 2012 Daihatsu Copen, 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, 1979 Isuzu Gemini (111 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Daihatsu Copen. (101 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1979 Isuzu Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Daihatsu Copen.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu Gemini | 2012 Daihatsu Copen | |
| Make | Isuzu | Daihatsu |
| Model | Gemini | Copen |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 659 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2230 mm |
