1958 MG MGA vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 46 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (125 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1958 MG MGA. (107 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1958 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 425 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, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 MG MGA. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 MG MGA | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | MG | Opel |
| Model | MGA | Astra |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 107 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| 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 | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2700 mm |
