1981 Holden Gemini vs. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 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 1,815 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Holden Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 Holden Gemini. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Gemini weights approximately 85 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Gemini. (105 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Gemini | 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Gemini | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1815 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2270 mm |
