1983 Holden Gemini vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 29 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1983 Holden Gemini. (66 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1983 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 425 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.
Because 1983 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 1983 Holden Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle, 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 Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Holden Gemini. (110 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Holden Gemini. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1983 Holden Gemini has manual transmission. 1983 Holden Gemini will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Holden Gemini | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2537 mm |
