1986 Holden Gemini vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1986 Holden Gemini is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1986 Holden Gemini. (72 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Lotus Elan weights approximately 29 kg more than 1986 Holden Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Lotus Elan 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Holden Gemini, 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, 1969 Lotus Elan (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Holden Gemini | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Holden | Lotus |
| Model | Gemini | Elan |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 889 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2440 mm |
