1998 Citroen Xantia vs. 1981 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xantia is newer by 17 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 1,816 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xantia (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (76 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xantia should accelerate faster than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 225 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, 1998 Citroen Xantia, 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, 1998 Citroen Xantia (142 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xantia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. 1981 Isuzu Gemini has automatic transmission and 1998 Citroen Xantia has manual transmission. 1998 Citroen Xantia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Isuzu Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xantia | 1981 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Citroen | Isuzu |
| Model | Xantia | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1816 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2410 mm |
