2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Isuzu Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Isuzu Gemini would be higher. At 1,816 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (76 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Isuzu Gemini weights approximately 5 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (245 Nm) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (129 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. 1981 Isuzu Gemini has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Isuzu Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Mazda | Isuzu |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Gemini |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1816 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2410 mm |
