1948 GAZ M-20 vs. 1985 Lada Niva
To start off, 1985 Lada Niva is newer by 37 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, 1985 Lada Niva (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1948 GAZ M-20. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Lada Niva 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 310 kg more than 1985 Lada Niva.
Because 1985 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1948 GAZ M-20. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Lada Niva 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. Let's talk about torque, 1948 GAZ M-20 (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lada Niva. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1948 GAZ M-20 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 GAZ M-20 | 1985 Lada Niva | |
| Make | GAZ | Lada |
| Model | M-20 | Niva |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1985 |
| Engine Size | 2120 cc | 1452 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2210 mm |
