1955 GAZ M-20 vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 GAZ M-20. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 GAZ M-20 would be higher. At 2,120 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 GAZ M-20 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1955 GAZ M-20. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1955 GAZ M-20. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 GAZ M-20 weights approximately 275 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1955 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 1955 GAZ M-20. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 GAZ M-20. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 GAZ M-20.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 GAZ M-20 | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | GAZ | Volkswagen |
| Model | M-20 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2001 |
| Engine Size | 2120 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3010 mm |
