1949 MG TD vs. 1987 Volvo 480
To start off, 1987 Volvo 480 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 MG TD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 MG TD would be higher. At 1,719 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Volvo 480 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1949 MG TD. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1949 MG TD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Volvo 480 weights approximately 144 kg more than 1949 MG TD. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 MG TD 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 1949 MG TD. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Volvo 480, 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, 1987 Volvo 480 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 MG TD. (87 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1987 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 MG TD.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 MG TD | 1987 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | MG | Volvo |
| Model | TD | 480 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1250 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2510 mm |
