1950 GAZ M-20 vs. 1979 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1979 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 GAZ M-20. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 GAZ M-20 would be higher. At 2,120 cc (4 cylinders), 1950 GAZ M-20 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Vauxhall Astra (74 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1950 GAZ M-20. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1950 GAZ M-20. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1950 GAZ M-20 weights approximately 605 kg more than 1979 Vauxhall Astra.
Because 1950 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 1950 GAZ M-20. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Vauxhall 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, 1950 GAZ M-20 (126 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1950 GAZ M-20 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 GAZ M-20 | 1979 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | GAZ | Vauxhall |
| Model | M-20 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1950 | 1979 |
| Engine Size | 2120 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
