1957 MG MGA vs. 2003 MG ZR
To start off, 2003 MG ZR is newer by 46 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, 2003 MG ZR (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1957 MG MGA. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 MG ZR should accelerate faster than 1957 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 MG ZR weights approximately 120 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, 2003 MG ZR, 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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 MG ZR. (123 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1957 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 MG ZR.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 MG MGA | 2003 MG ZR | |
| Make | MG | MG |
| Model | MGA | ZR |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2510 mm |
