1961 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 1957 MG MGA
To start off, 1961 Austin Mini Cooper is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,487 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 MG MGA (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1957 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 MG MGA weights approximately 316 kg more than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 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 1957 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Austin Mini Cooper, 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, 1957 MG MGA (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (74 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1957 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin Mini Cooper | 1957 MG MGA | |
| Make | Austin | MG |
| Model | Mini Cooper | MGA |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1487 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 157 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 584 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3050 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2390 mm |
