1987 Holden Gemini vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1987 Holden Gemini is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 (109 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1987 Holden Gemini. (72 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1987 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 492 kg more than 1987 Holden Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Holden Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Holden Gemini | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Gemini | 230 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 864 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2800 mm |
