1955 MG MGA vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 MG MGA 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 15 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 20 kg more than 1955 MG MGA.
Because 1955 MG MGA 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 1955 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1955 MG MGA (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1955 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 MG MGA | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | MGA | Passat |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2480 mm |
