1986 Holden Gemini vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1986 Holden Gemini. (72 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 178 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Holden Gemini | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Gemini | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2270 mm |
