1997 Daihatsu Charade vs. 1980 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 1997 Daihatsu Charade 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 1,817 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Daihatsu Charade (83 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (76 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Daihatsu Charade should accelerate faster than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Isuzu Gemini weights approximately 215 kg more than 1997 Daihatsu Charade.
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 Daihatsu Charade, 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, 1980 Isuzu Gemini (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Daihatsu Charade. (105 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1980 Isuzu Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Daihatsu Charade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Daihatsu Charade | 1980 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Isuzu |
| Model | Charade | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1817 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 845 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2410 mm |
