1999 Chevrolet Prizm vs. 1979 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Prizm is newer by 20 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Chevrolet Prizm is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Chevrolet Prizm (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Prizm should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Chevrolet Prizm weights approximately 150 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, 1999 Chevrolet Prizm, 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, 1999 Chevrolet Prizm (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1999 Chevrolet Prizm will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. 1979 Isuzu Gemini has automatic transmission and 1999 Chevrolet Prizm has manual transmission. 1999 Chevrolet Prizm 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:
| 1999 Chevrolet Prizm | 1979 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Isuzu |
| Model | Prizm | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1092 kg | 942 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
