1956 MG MGA vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 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 2,226 cc (5 cylinders), 1986 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volkswagen Passat (136 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1956 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1956 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 260 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, 1986 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, 1986 Volkswagen Passat (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 MG MGA | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | MGA | Passat |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2226 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 16 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
