1981 Holden Gemini vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 27 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 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S80 (162 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1981 Holden Gemini. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 567 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, 2008 Volvo S80, 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, 2008 Volvo S80 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Gemini. (105 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Gemini | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Holden | Volvo |
| Model | Gemini | S80 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1815 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2800 mm |
