1979 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1979 Isuzu Gemini (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Isuzu Gemini should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 274 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (131 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1229 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2578 mm |
