1957 MG MGA vs. 1979 Talbot Horizon
To start off, 1979 Talbot Horizon is newer by 22 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 1,487 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 MG MGA (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1979 Talbot Horizon. (58 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1979 Talbot Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Talbot Horizon weights approximately 45 kg more than 1957 MG MGA.
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, 1979 Talbot Horizon, 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 (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Talbot Horizon. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1957 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Talbot Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 MG MGA | 1979 Talbot Horizon | |
| Make | MG | Talbot |
| Model | MGA | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1487 cc | 1118 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2530 mm |
