1958 MG MGA vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1958 MG MGA. (107 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1958 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 357 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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 MG MGA. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 MG MGA | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | MGA | Golf |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 107 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1257 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2520 mm |
