1986 Holden Gemini vs. 1970 Volvo 120
To start off, 1986 Holden Gemini is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Volvo 120 (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1986 Holden Gemini. (72 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Volvo 120 should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Volvo 120 weights approximately 170 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 1970 Volvo 120 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 1970 Volvo 120. 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, 1970 Volvo 120 (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1970 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Holden Gemini | 1970 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Holden | Volvo |
| Model | Gemini | 120 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
