1957 MG MGA vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 52 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, 2009 Opel Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1957 MG MGA. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1957 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 330 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, 2009 Opel 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, 2009 Opel Astra (176 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 MG MGA. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 MG MGA | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | MG | Opel |
| Model | MGA | Astra |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2620 mm |
