1954 GAZ M-20 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 GAZ M-20. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 GAZ M-20 would be higher. At 2,120 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 GAZ M-20 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1954 GAZ M-20. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1954 GAZ M-20. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 GAZ M-20 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra.
Because 1954 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 1954 GAZ M-20. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel 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, 2003 Opel Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 GAZ M-20. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 GAZ M-20.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 GAZ M-20 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | GAZ | Opel |
| Model | M-20 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2003 |
| Engine Size | 2120 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |
