1958 MG MGA vs. 1976 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1976 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 18 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 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1958 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 MG MGA (71 HP) has 32 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1958 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 MG MGA weights approximately 200 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1976 Volkswagen Polo, 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 (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1958 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 MG MGA | 1976 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | MGA | Polo |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2410 mm |
