1980 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 32 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (76 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 320 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, 2012 Volkswagen 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Isuzu Gemini | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2537 mm |
