1981 Holden Gemini vs. 1986 Lada Samara
To start off, 1986 Lada Samara is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Holden Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Holden Gemini would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Holden Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Holden Gemini (67 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1986 Lada Samara. (64 HP @ 5550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Holden Gemini should accelerate faster than 1986 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Gemini weights approximately 35 kg more than 1986 Lada Samara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Holden 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 1981 Holden Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Lada Samara, 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, 1981 Holden Gemini (110 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lada Samara. (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lada Samara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Gemini | 1986 Lada Samara | |
| Make | Holden | Lada |
| Model | Gemini | Samara |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5550 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
