1973 MG MGB vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1973 MG MGB. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 MG MGB. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 240 kg more than 1973 MG MGB. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 MG MGB. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 MG MGB.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 MG MGB | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | MGB | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2470 mm |
