2001 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1980 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 2001 Daihatsu Copen is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Isuzu Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Isuzu Gemini would be higher. At 1,817 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Isuzu Gemini (76 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2001 Daihatsu Copen. (62 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Isuzu Gemini should accelerate faster than 2001 Daihatsu Copen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Isuzu Gemini weights approximately 260 kg more than 2001 Daihatsu Copen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Isuzu Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Daihatsu Copen, 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, 1980 Isuzu Gemini (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Daihatsu Copen. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1980 Isuzu Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Daihatsu Copen.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Daihatsu Copen | 1980 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Isuzu |
| Model | Copen | Gemini |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 659 cc | 1817 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
