1972 Austin 1800 vs. 1961 MG Midget
To start off, 1972 Austin 1800 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 MG Midget. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 MG Midget would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Austin 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Austin 1800 (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1961 MG Midget. (46 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Austin 1800 should accelerate faster than 1961 MG Midget. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Austin 1800 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1961 MG Midget. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 MG Midget 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 Midget. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Austin 1800, 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, 1972 Austin 1800 (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 MG Midget. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1972 Austin 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 MG Midget.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin 1800 | 1961 MG Midget | |
| Make | Austin | MG |
| Model | 1800 | Midget |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 46 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1372 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1232 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2032 mm |
