1959 MG MGA vs. 1988 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1988 Ford Tempo is newer by 29 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 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Tempo (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1959 MG MGA. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Tempo should accelerate faster than 1959 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Tempo weights approximately 205 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.
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, 1988 Ford Tempo, 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, 1988 Ford Tempo (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 MG MGA. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Tempo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 MG MGA. 1988 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 1959 MG MGA has manual transmission. 1959 MG MGA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 MG MGA | 1988 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | MG | Ford |
| Model | MGA | Tempo |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2540 mm |
