1955 MG MGA vs. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 34 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass (138 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1955 MG MGA. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1955 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 590 kg more than 1955 MG MGA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 MG MGA. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 MG MGA. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1955 MG MGA has manual transmission. 1955 MG MGA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 MG MGA | 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | MG | Oldsmobile |
| Model | MGA | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2740 mm |
