1980 Isuzu Gemini vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Isuzu Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Isuzu Gemini would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 330 kg more than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Isuzu Gemini | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Isuzu | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Gemini | SLK |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
