1980 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 29 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (76 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 95 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Isuzu Gemini | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Isuzu | Mazda |
| Model | Gemini | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2340 mm |
