2012 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1982 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Isuzu Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Isuzu Gemini would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1982 Isuzu Gemini. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1982 Isuzu Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 393 kg more than 1982 Isuzu Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Isuzu 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 1982 Isuzu Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Isuzu Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Isuzu Gemini. 1982 Isuzu Gemini has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Isuzu Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | 1982 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Isuzu |
| Model | Beetle | Gemini |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1333 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4278 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1808 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1486 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2537 mm | 2410 mm |
