1956 MG MGA vs. 1988 Renault 5
To start off, 1988 Renault 5 is newer by 32 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 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Renault 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Renault 5 (95 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1956 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 1956 MG MGA.
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, 1988 Renault 5, 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, 1988 Renault 5 (143 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 MG MGA | 1988 Renault 5 | |
| Make | MG | Renault |
| Model | MGA | 5 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 16 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2420 mm |
