1959 MG MGA vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 49 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 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 MG MGA (106 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 493 kg more than 1959 MG MGA.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 MG MGA. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
Make | MG | Opel |
Model | MGA | Astra |
Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1686 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 106 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 141 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2300 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 | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1393 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2710 mm |