1997 Lada Niva vs. 1980 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 1997 Lada Niva 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 Lada Niva (79 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (76 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lada Niva should accelerate faster than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lada Niva weights approximately 152 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 1997 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Lada Niva will offer significantly more control. 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 Lada Niva (133 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Isuzu Gemini. (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Lada Niva 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 Lada Niva has manual transmission. 1997 Lada Niva 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 Lada Niva | 1980 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Lada | Isuzu |
| Model | Niva | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1690 cc | 1817 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2410 mm |
