1980 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 33 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 1,582 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 565 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta 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. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Isuzu Gemini | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2651 mm |
