1981 Holden Gemini vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra 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 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1981 Holden Gemini. (67 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 275 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 Opel Astra, 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 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Gemini. (110 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Gemini | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Holden | Opel |
| Model | Gemini | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
