1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 1980 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 1997 Dodge Caravan 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Caravan (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 860 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 Dodge Caravan, 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 Dodge Caravan (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. 1980 Isuzu Gemini has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Isuzu Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Caravan | 1980 Isuzu Gemini | |
Make | Dodge | Isuzu |
Model | Caravan | Gemini |
Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1582 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 116 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4240 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2410 mm |