1952 MG TD vs. 1955 MG MGA
To start off, 1955 MG MGA is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 MG TD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 MG TD would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 MG MGA (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1952 MG TD. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1952 MG TD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 MG MGA weights approximately 25 kg more than 1952 MG TD. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1955 MG MGA (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 MG TD. (87 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1955 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 MG TD.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 MG TD | 1955 MG MGA | |
| Make | MG | MG |
| Model | TD | MGA |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1250 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2390 mm |
