2012 Lexus IS vs. 1981 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 31 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 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 627 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, 2012 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Isuzu Gemini. 1981 Isuzu Gemini has automatic transmission and 2012 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2012 Lexus IS 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:
| 2012 Lexus IS | 1981 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Lexus | Isuzu |
| Model | IS | Gemini |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1567 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4585 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1801 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2731 mm | 2410 mm |
