1983 Holden Gemini vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Holden Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Holden Gemini would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1983 Holden Gemini. (66 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 374 kg more than 1983 Holden Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Holden Gemini. (110 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Holden Gemini | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Gemini | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2340 mm |
