1986 Holden Gemini vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Holden Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Holden Gemini would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1986 Holden Gemini. (66 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 270 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 1986 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 1986 Holden Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40, 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, 1996 Volvo S40 (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Gemini. (110 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Holden Gemini | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Holden | Volvo |
| Model | Gemini | S40 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |
