2003 Lotus Elise vs. 1990 Holden Gemini
To start off, 2003 Lotus Elise is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Holden Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Holden Gemini would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Elise (121 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1990 Holden Gemini. (72 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1990 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Holden Gemini weights approximately 110 kg more than 2003 Lotus Elise.
Because 2003 Lotus Elise 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 2003 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Holden Gemini, 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, 2003 Lotus Elise (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Holden Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Holden Gemini. 1990 Holden Gemini has automatic transmission and 2003 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 2003 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Holden Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lotus Elise | 1990 Holden Gemini | |
| Make | Lotus | Holden |
| Model | Elise | Gemini |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
