1955 MG MGA vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 57 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1955 MG MGA. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1955 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 433 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 MG MGA. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 MG MGA | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | MGA | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2537 mm |
