1959 MG MGA vs. 1982 Volvo 260
To start off, 1982 Volvo 260 is newer by 23 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 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1959 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1959 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Volvo 260 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1959 MG MGA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1982 Volvo 260 (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1982 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 MG MGA | 1982 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | MG | Volvo |
| Model | MGA | 260 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2660 mm |
