2002 Ford Ka vs. 1979 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 23 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Ka (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Ka weights approximately 194 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, 2002 Ford Ka, 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, 2002 Ford Ka (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1979 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Ford | Isuzu |
| Model | Ka | Gemini |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 942 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
