1959 MG MGA vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1959 MG MGA. (106 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1959 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 751 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, 2008 Volvo S40, 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 Volvo S40 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 MG MGA. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 MG MGA | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | MG | Volvo |
| Model | MGA | S40 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1651 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2650 mm |
