1986 Holden Gemini vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Holden Gemini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Holden Gemini would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Holden Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1986 Holden Gemini. (66 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 371 kg more than 1986 Holden Gemini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Holden Gemini. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Gemini. (110 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Holden Gemini | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Gemini | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2860 mm |
