1948 GAZ M-20 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 35 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, 1983 Volkswagen Golf (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1948 GAZ M-20. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Golf 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 540 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1983 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1983 Volkswagen Golf (133 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 GAZ M-20. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1983 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | GAZ | Volkswagen |
| Model | M-20 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1983 |
| Engine Size | 2120 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
