1959 MG MGA vs. 1963 MG 1100
To start off, 1963 MG 1100 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 MG MGA (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1963 MG 1100. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1963 MG 1100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 MG MGA weights approximately 75 kg more than 1963 MG 1100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1963 MG 1100, 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, 1959 MG MGA (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 MG 1100. (83 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1959 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 MG 1100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 MG MGA | 1963 MG 1100 | |
| Make | MG | MG |
| Model | MGA | 1100 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2380 mm |
