1996 Mazda 121 vs. 1977 Holden Gemini
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Holden Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Holden Gemini would be higher. At 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Holden Gemini (81 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Holden Gemini should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 121 weights approximately 164 kg more than 1977 Holden Gemini.
Because 1977 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 1977 Holden Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121, 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, 1977 Holden Gemini (127 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1977 Holden Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 1977 Holden Gemini has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Holden Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 1977 Holden Gemini | |
| Make | Mazda | Holden |
| Model | 121 | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
