1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Isuzu Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Isuzu Gemini would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 445 kg more than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Isuzu Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 1981 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Isuzu |
| Model | Malibu | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
