1986 Holden Gemini vs. 1979 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1986 Holden Gemini is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1986 Holden Gemini. (72 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 725 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 1979 Pontiac Firebird 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 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1979 Pontiac Firebird (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Holden Gemini | 1979 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Holden | Pontiac |
| Model | Gemini | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2750 mm |
