1973 MG MGB vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 MG MGB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 MG MGB would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 MG MGB is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 MG MGB (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 MG MGB should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 MG MGB weights approximately 80 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 MG MGB 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 1973 MG MGB. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1973 MG MGB (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (121 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1973 MG MGB will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 MG MGB | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | MGB | Passat |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2480 mm |
