1981 Holden Gemini vs. 1995 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 14 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1981 Holden Gemini. (67 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 104 kg more than 1981 Holden Gemini. 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, 1995 Mazda MX-3, 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, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Gemini. (110 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Gemini | 1995 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Gemini | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2460 mm |
