1958 MG MGA vs. 1996 Volkswagen Parati
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Parati is newer by 38 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 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Parati is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Parati (91 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1958 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Parati should accelerate faster than 1958 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Parati weights approximately 75 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, 1996 Volkswagen Parati, 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, 1996 Volkswagen Parati (148 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Parati will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 MG MGA | 1996 Volkswagen Parati | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | MGA | Parati |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2480 mm |
