1962 MG MGA vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 51 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1962 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1962 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 480 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 MG MGA | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | MGA | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2537 mm |
