1957 MG MGA vs. 1990 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1990 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 33 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 35 more horse power than 1990 Volkswagen Jetta. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1990 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 MG MGA weights approximately 25 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1990 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1957 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 MG MGA | 1990 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | MGA | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2480 mm |
