1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1979 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Isuzu Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Isuzu Gemini would be higher. At 1,868 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 61 kg more than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Isuzu Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara, 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 Xsara (128 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (106 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. 1979 Isuzu Gemini has automatic transmission and 1998 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 1998 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Isuzu Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1979 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Citroen | Isuzu |
| Model | Xsara | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1868 cc | 1817 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
