1986 Holden Gemini vs. 2009 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 23 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1986 Holden Gemini. (72 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lotus Elise weights approximately 22 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 2009 Lotus Elise 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 2009 Lotus Elise. 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, 2009 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Holden Gemini | 2009 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Holden | Lotus |
| Model | Gemini | Elise |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 882 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2310 mm |
