1957 MG MGA vs. 1983 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1983 Mini MK IV is newer by 26 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 37 more horse power than 1983 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1983 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 MG MGA weights approximately 290 kg more than 1983 Mini MK IV. 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, 1983 Mini MK IV, 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 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1957 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 MG MGA | 1983 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | MG | Mini |
| Model | MGA | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1487 cc | 847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2040 mm |
