1957 MG MGA vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 40 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1957 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1957 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 390 kg more than 1957 MG MGA. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 MG MGA.

Compare all specifications:

1957 MG MGA 1997 Volkswagen Golf
Make MG Volkswagen
Model MGA Golf
Year Released 1957 1997
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1487 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 71 HP 115 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 104 Nm 166 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2600 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 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 900 kg 1290 kg
Vehicle Length 3970 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1460 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2390 mm 2520 mm