1989 Volvo 480 vs. 1981 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 1989 Volvo 480 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Isuzu Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Isuzu Gemini would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 480 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 480 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Isuzu 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 Isuzu Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 480, 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, 1989 Volvo 480 (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. 1981 Isuzu Gemini has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Isuzu Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Volvo 480 | 1981 Isuzu Gemini | |
Make | Volvo | Isuzu |
Model | 480 | Gemini |
Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1584 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 141 Nm | 116 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4240 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |