2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (76 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 69 kg more than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2006 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:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Mazda | Isuzu |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Gemini |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1816 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2410 mm |
