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Isuzu Gemini JT 1.8 i 16V (142 Hp) Automatic
Overall Rating
Isuzu Gemini:
The Isuzu Gemini is a subcompact car produced by the Japanese automaker Isuzu from 1974 until 2000. The same basic product was built and/or sold under several other names, sometimes by General Motors brands, in various markets around the world. While the first generation was of a rear-wheel drive design, later versions were all front-wheel-drive, and the last two generations were no more than badge-engineered Honda Domani until the name was retired in 2000.
The first Gemini was initially sold as the Bellett Gemini to connect it to its predecessor when it was introduced in November 1974. The "Bellett" portion of the name was dropped in April 1975. It was based on the third-generation Opel Kadett C on the General Motors T-car platform and came in four-door sedan and two-door coupe body styles. The chassis code was PF50, although the later 1. 8-liter versions were called PF60 and the diesels PFD60....(Read more on Wikipedia)
JT Overview:
Isuzu Gemini (JT). With 162 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1000 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. The top speed reaches 210 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
The Isuzu Gemini JT generation was produced before Euro NCAP testing began in 1997, so no official rating is available. Safety features were basic for its era, typical of compact cars from the late 1980s and early 1990s.
1.8 i 16V (142 Hp) Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The automatic transmission provides a smoother, more relaxed driving experience compared to the manual, though with a slight compromise in outright acceleration and responsiveness.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy will be marginally lower than the manual 1.8L due to the automatic transmission's inherent losses, but still acceptable for daily use and urban commuting.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Diverse engine lineup, including spirited petrol and economical diesel options.
- • Good handling characteristics, especially in sportier trims, offering an engaging drive.
- • Generally reliable and durable for its era, with many examples still on the road.
- • Compact size made it agile in urban environments and easy to park.
- • Often offered good value on the used market, making it an accessible choice.
Cons:
- • Interior quality and design were functional but not luxurious, typical of its class.
- • Safety features were basic by modern standards (common for its time).
- • Rust can be an issue on older models, particularly in areas with harsh climates.
- • Parts availability can be challenging for some specific components today.
- • Road noise could be noticeable at higher speeds, impacting long-distance comfort.
Specifications:
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Isuzu |
| Model: | Gemini |
| Generation: | JT |
| Modification (Engine): | 1.8 i 16V (142 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production: | 1988 |
| End of production: | 1992 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 142 Hp @ 6400 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 78.5 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 162 Nm @ 4600 rpm. |
| Engine displacement: | 1809 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 80 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 90 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9.7:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed: | 210 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 7 kg/Hp, 142 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 6.2 kg/Nm, 162 Nm/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1000 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 325 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 47 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4195 mm mm |
| Width: | 1680 mm mm |
| Height: | 1370 mm mm |
| Wheelbase: | 2450 mm mm |
| Front track: | 1430 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1400 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/60 HR14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
Does the Isuzu Gemini live up to the hype? Give us your verdict!