1959 MG MGA vs. 1975 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1975 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 16 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 MG MGA (89 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1959 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 10 kg more than 1959 MG MGA.
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, 1975 Volkswagen Passat, 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 (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Passat. (114 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1959 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 MG MGA | 1975 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | MGA | Passat |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| 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 | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2480 mm |
