1957 MG MGA vs. 1982 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1982 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 25 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Vauxhall Astra (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1957 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1957 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 MG MGA weights approximately 15 kg more than 1982 Vauxhall Astra.
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, 1982 Vauxhall Astra, 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, 1982 Vauxhall Astra (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1982 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 MG MGA | 1982 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | MG | Vauxhall |
| Model | MGA | Astra |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1487 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2520 mm |
