1958 MG MGA vs. 2008 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper is newer by 50 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mini Cooper (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1958 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1958 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mini Cooper weights approximately 240 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, 2008 Mini Cooper, 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, 2008 Mini Cooper (155 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 MG MGA | 2008 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | MG | Mini |
| Model | MGA | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 16 seconds | 9.1 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 | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
