1980 Isuzu Gemini vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (76 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 179 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.
Because 1980 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 1980 Isuzu Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Isuzu Gemini | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | Golf |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1239 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
