1958 MG MGA vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 47 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1958 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1958 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 380 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 MG MGA | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | MGA | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 16 seconds | 11.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
