1981 Honda Civic vs. 1986 Holden Gemini
To start off, 1986 Holden Gemini is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Holden Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Holden Gemini (72 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1981 Honda Civic. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Holden Gemini should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Holden Gemini weights approximately 75 kg more than 1981 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1986 Holden Gemini (116 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Civic. (93 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Holden Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Civic. 1986 Holden Gemini has automatic transmission and 1981 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 1981 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Holden Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Civic | 1986 Holden Gemini | |
| Make | Honda | Holden |
| Model | Civic | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1333 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2410 mm |
