1956 MG MGA vs. 1977 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1977 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 MG MGA would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1977 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 NSU Ro 80 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1956 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1956 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1956 MG MGA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 NSU Ro 80, 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, 1977 NSU Ro 80 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1977 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 MG MGA. 1977 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1956 MG MGA has manual transmission. 1956 MG MGA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 MG MGA | 1977 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | MG | NSU |
| Model | MGA | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2870 mm |
