1962 MG MGA vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 50 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1962 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1962 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 536 kg more than 1962 MG MGA. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
1962 MG MGA | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | MG | Volkswagen |
Model | MGA | Passat |
Year Released | 1962 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 104 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1436 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2712 mm |