1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1980 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Isuzu Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Isuzu Gemini would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 80 kg more than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Isuzu Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan, 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. 1980 Isuzu Gemini has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Isuzu Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1980 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Lotus | Isuzu |
| Model | Elan | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
