2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1985 Holden Gemini
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Holden Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Holden Gemini would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1985 Holden Gemini. (72 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1985 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 295 kg more than 1985 Holden Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Holden Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Holden Gemini. 1985 Holden Gemini has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Holden Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1985 Holden Gemini | |
| Make | Mazda | Holden |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Gemini |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2410 mm |
