1981 Isuzu Gemini vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 31 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 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 654 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Isuzu Gemini | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4771 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2712 mm |
