1957 MG MGA vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 MG MGA (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 MG MGA weights approximately 80 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 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 1957 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1957 MG MGA (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1957 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1957 MG MGA | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | MG | Volkswagen |
Model | MGA | Beetle |
Year Released | 1957 | 1974 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 149 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2410 mm |