1971 Citroen DS vs. 1957 MG MGA
To start off, 1971 Citroen DS is newer by 14 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Citroen DS (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1957 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1957 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen DS weights approximately 312 kg more than 1957 MG MGA. 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, 1971 Citroen DS, 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, 1971 Citroen DS (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 1957 MG MGA | |
| Make | Citroen | MG |
| Model | DS | MGA |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1487 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2390 mm |
