1988 Holden Barina vs. 1981 Holden Gemini
To start off, 1988 Holden Barina is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Holden Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Holden Gemini would be higher. At 1,815 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Holden Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Holden Barina (67 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1981 Holden Gemini. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Holden Barina should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Holden Gemini weights approximately 320 kg more than 1988 Holden Barina.
Because 1981 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 1981 Holden Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Holden Barina, 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, 1981 Holden Gemini (105 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Holden Barina. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Holden Barina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Holden Barina | 1981 Holden Gemini | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Barina | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1815 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2250 mm | 2410 mm |
