1951 GAZ M-20 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 GAZ M-20. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 GAZ M-20 would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1951 GAZ M-20. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1951 GAZ M-20. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 GAZ M-20 weights approximately 229 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1951 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 1951 GAZ M-20. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 GAZ M-20. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 GAZ M-20.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 GAZ M-20 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | GAZ | Volkswagen |
| Model | M-20 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2008 |
| Engine Size | 2120 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
