1973 MG MGB vs. 2012 Kia Rio

To start off, 2012 Kia Rio is newer by 39 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, 2012 Kia Rio (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1973 MG MGB. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1973 MG MGB. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Rio weights approximately 126 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, 2012 Kia Rio, 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, 2012 Kia Rio (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 MG MGB. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 MG MGB. 2012 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 1973 MG MGB has manual transmission. 1973 MG MGB will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1973 MG MGB 2012 Kia Rio
Make MG Kia
Model MGB Rio
Year Released 1973 2012
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 1600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 97 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 149 Nm 167 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4850 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1000 kg 1126 kg
Vehicle Length 3900 mm 4046 mm
Vehicle Width 1530 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1260 mm 1455 mm
Wheelbase Size 2320 mm 2570 mm