1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1979 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Isuzu Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Isuzu Gemini would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Isuzu Gemini weights approximately 288 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Caterham C21 (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. 1979 Isuzu Gemini has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Isuzu Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1979 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Caterham | Isuzu |
| Model | C21 | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 942 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
