1981 Holden Gemini vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (89 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 Holden Gemini. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 198 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 New Beetle, 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 New Beetle (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Gemini. (105 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 New Beetle | |
Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
Model | Gemini | New Beetle |
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 | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1248 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |