1956 MG MGA vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 50 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 2,194 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1956 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1956 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 550 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, 2006 Saturn ION, 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, 2006 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 MG MGA. 2006 Saturn ION 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. 2006 Saturn ION will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 MG MGA | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | MG | Saturn |
| Model | MGA | ION |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
