1980 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 623 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 Passat, 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 Passat (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1980 Isuzu Gemini has manual transmission. 1980 Isuzu Gemini will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Isuzu Gemini | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | Passat |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2712 mm |
