1959 MG MGA vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 53 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 MG MGA (106 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 329 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 MG MGA. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 MG MGA | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | MGA | Golf |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1229 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2578 mm |
