1980 Isuzu Gemini vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 391 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, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm). This means 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Isuzu Gemini | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
