2008 Ford Focus vs. 1979 Holden Gemini
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Holden Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Holden Gemini would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1979 Holden Gemini. (66 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1979 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 268 kg more than 1979 Holden Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Holden 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 Holden Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus, 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, 2008 Ford Focus (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Holden Gemini. (113 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Holden Gemini. 1979 Holden Gemini has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Holden Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1979 Holden Gemini | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Focus | Gemini |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1213 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5770 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
