2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Holden Gemini
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden Gemini would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Holden Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Holden Gemini. (66 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1978 Holden Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Holden Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Gemini. (113 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Gemini. 1978 Holden Gemini has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Holden Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1978 Holden Gemini | |
| Make | Mazda | Holden |
| Model | 3 | Gemini |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
