1958 MG MGA vs. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 31 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 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 (192 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1958 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1958 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1958 MG MGA. 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, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164, 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, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 MG MGA | 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | MG | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | MGA | 164 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2959 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 16 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2670 mm |
