1985 Citroen Mehari vs. 1979 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 1985 Citroen Mehari is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Isuzu Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Isuzu Gemini would be higher. At 1,817 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Isuzu Gemini (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1985 Citroen Mehari. (29 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Isuzu Gemini should accelerate faster than 1985 Citroen Mehari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Isuzu Gemini weights approximately 400 kg more than 1985 Citroen Mehari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Isuzu Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Citroen Mehari, 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, 1979 Isuzu Gemini (131 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Citroen Mehari. (39 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Isuzu Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Citroen Mehari.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Citroen Mehari | 1979 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Citroen | Isuzu |
| Model | Mehari | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 602 cc | 1817 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
