1981 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Isuzu Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Isuzu Gemini would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (76 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 1247 kg more than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Isuzu 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 Isuzu Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Isuzu Gemini | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1816 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
