1997 Buick Riviera vs. 1980 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 1997 Buick Riviera is newer by 17 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Riviera (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (76 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 621 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, 1997 Buick Riviera, 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, 1997 Buick Riviera (364 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1980 Isuzu Gemini has manual transmission. 1980 Isuzu Gemini will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Buick Riviera | 1980 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Buick | Isuzu |
| Model | Riviera | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 1817 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2410 mm |
