1956 GAZ M-20 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 45 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1956 GAZ M-20. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf 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 355 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 GAZ M-20. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 GAZ M-20. 2001 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1956 GAZ M-20 has manual transmission. 1956 GAZ M-20 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 GAZ M-20 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | GAZ | Volkswagen |
| Model | M-20 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2001 |
| Engine Size | 2120 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2512 mm |
