1961 MG MGA vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1961 MG MGA. (106 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1961 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 342 kg more than 1961 MG MGA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour, 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, 1998 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 MG MGA. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 MG MGA. 1998 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 1961 MG MGA has manual transmission. 1961 MG MGA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1961 MG MGA | 1998 Ford Contour | |
Make | MG | Ford |
Model | MGA | Contour |
Year Released | 1961 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 106 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 141 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2710 mm |