1996 Honda S-MX vs. 1986 Holden Gemini
To start off, 1996 Honda S-MX is newer by 10 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 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Honda S-MX (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1986 Holden Gemini. (72 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda S-MX weights approximately 470 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 1996 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Holden Gemini. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Honda S-MX will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Gemini. 1986 Holden Gemini has automatic transmission and 1996 Honda S-MX has manual transmission. 1996 Honda S-MX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Holden Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda S-MX | 1986 Holden Gemini | |
| Make | Honda | Holden |
| Model | S-MX | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
