1998 Ford Focus vs. 1979 Holden Gemini

To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Holden Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Holden Gemini would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (135 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1979 Holden Gemini. (66 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1979 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 184 kg more than 1979 Holden Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 Holden 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 Holden Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (162 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Holden Gemini. (113 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Holden Gemini. 1979 Holden Gemini has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Holden Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Ford Focus 1979 Holden Gemini
Make Ford Holden
Model Focus Gemini
Year Released 1998 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1795 cc 1584 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 135 HP 66 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 162 Nm 113 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 3600 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1129 kg 945 kg
Vehicle Length 4370 mm 4240 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1580 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2410 mm