1959 MG MGA vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 48 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 1,685 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1959 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1959 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 465 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, 2007 Opel Astra, 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, 2007 Opel Astra (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 MG MGA | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | MG | Opel |
| Model | MGA | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 16 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
