1959 MG MGA vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 40 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1959 MG MGA. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1959 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 560 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, 1999 Volvo S80, 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 MG MGA. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 MG MGA | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | MG | Volvo |
| Model | MGA | S80 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2800 mm |
