1959 MG MGA vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1996 Toyota MR2 is newer by 37 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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 MG MGA (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 715 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 (149 Nm) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 1959 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 MG MGA | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | MG | Toyota |
| Model | MGA | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2410 mm |
