1959 MG MGA vs. 1972 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1972 Volkswagen 1600 is newer by 13 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 MG MGA (106 HP) has 53 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1959 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 66 kg more than 1959 MG MGA.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1959 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 MG MGA | 1972 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | MGA | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2520 mm |
