1959 MG MGA vs. 2001 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2001 Peugeot 406 is newer by 42 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Peugeot 406 (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1959 MG MGA. (106 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1959 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 444 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, 2001 Peugeot 406, 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, 2001 Peugeot 406 (181 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 MG MGA. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 MG MGA | 2001 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | MG | Peugeot |
| Model | MGA | 406 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2610 mm |
