USSR vs USA — 1956 vs 1955
| 21 Volga | Hornet Hollywood Hardtop | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 75 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | — | 290 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,445 cc | 5,047 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 12.3 sec |
| Top Speed | — | 100 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 18.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,700 mm | 3,150 mm |
| Length | 4,830 mm | 5,232 mm |
| Units Produced | 639,478 | 1,943 |
| Original MSRP | — | $2,769 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 8/10 |
The 1955 Hudson Hornet Hollywood Hardtop emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The 1956 GAZ 21 Volga counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When USSR engineering meets USA craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1956 GAZ 21 Volga and 1955 Hudson Hornet Hollywood Hardtop embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1955 Hudson Hornet Hollywood Hardtop holds a clear advantage in raw power with 170 hp compared to 75 hp, a 95-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the GAZ 21 uses a Inline-4 displacing 2,445 cc, while the Hudson Hornet relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 5,047 cc. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,943 units built, the 1955 Hudson Hornet Hollywood Hardtop is considerably scarcer than the GAZ 21's 639,478 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Hudson Hornet Hollywood Hardtop commands a significant premium over the 1956 GAZ 21 Volga, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1955 Hudson Hornet Hollywood Hardtop rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.