1956 GAZ M-20 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 43 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1956 GAZ M-20. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle 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 194 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 1999 Volkswagen 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 GAZ M-20. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 GAZ M-20.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 GAZ M-20 | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | GAZ | Volkswagen |
| Model | M-20 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1999 |
| Engine Size | 2120 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
