1941 GAZ 61 vs. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1956 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1941 GAZ 61. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1941 GAZ 61 would be higher. At 3,480 cc (6 cylinders), 1941 GAZ 61 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1941 GAZ 61 (85 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1941 GAZ 61 should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1941 GAZ 61 weights approximately 850 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1941 GAZ 61 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1941 GAZ 61 will offer significantly more control. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1941 GAZ 61 | 1956 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | GAZ | Volkswagen |
| Model | 61 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1941 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3480 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2410 mm |
