1948 GAZ M-20 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 GAZ M-20. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 GAZ M-20 would be higher. At 2,120 cc (4 cylinders), 1948 GAZ M-20 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volkswagen Passat (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1948 GAZ M-20. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1948 GAZ M-20. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 GAZ M-20 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1948 GAZ M-20 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 1948 GAZ M-20. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1980 Volkswagen Passat (167 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 GAZ M-20. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1980 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 GAZ M-20.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 GAZ M-20 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | GAZ | Volkswagen |
| Model | M-20 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 2120 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
