1981 Holden Gemini vs. 2009 Kia Rio
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio is newer by 28 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, 2009 Kia Rio (81 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1981 Holden Gemini. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rio weights approximately 94 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, 2009 Kia Rio, 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, 2009 Kia Rio (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Gemini. (105 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Gemini | 2009 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Holden | Kia |
| Model | Gemini | Rio |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1815 cc | 1343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1144 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2420 mm |
