1956 GAZ M-20 vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1973 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 GAZ M-20. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 GAZ M-20 would be higher. At 2,120 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 GAZ M-20 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1956 GAZ M-20. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1956 GAZ M-20. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 GAZ M-20 weights approximately 566 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1956 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 1956 GAZ M-20. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1956 GAZ M-20 (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1956 GAZ M-20 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 GAZ M-20 | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | GAZ | Volkswagen |
| Model | M-20 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 2120 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 894 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
