1962 MG MGA vs. 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 MG MGA (106 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 MG MGA weights approximately 105 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1962 MG MGA (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit. (110 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1962 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1962 MG MGA has manual transmission. 1962 MG MGA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 MG MGA | 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | MGA | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1470 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2410 mm |
