1958 MG MGA vs. 1968 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1968 Triumph Spitfire is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1958 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 MG MGA (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 MG MGA weights approximately 150 kg more than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 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 1958 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Triumph Spitfire, 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, 1958 MG MGA (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. (104 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1958 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 MG MGA | 1968 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | MG | Triumph |
| Model | MGA | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2110 mm |
