1949 GAZ M-20 vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 60 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 GAZ M-20. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 GAZ M-20 would be higher. At 2,118 cc (4 cylinders), 1949 GAZ M-20 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (136 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1949 GAZ M-20. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1949 GAZ M-20. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 GAZ M-20 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Because 1949 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 1949 GAZ M-20. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra, 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, both vehicles can yield 125 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 GAZ M-20 | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | GAZ | Saturn |
| Model | M-20 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2009 |
| Engine Size | 2118 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
