1981 Holden Gemini vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (66 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1981 Holden Gemini. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 226 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (133 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Gemini. (105 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Gemini | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1815 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
