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 1,817 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (56 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 100 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 (153 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (111 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1979 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Citroen | Isuzu |
| Model | Xsara | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1817 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
