1980 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1955 MG MGA
To start off, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 MG MGA would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1955 MG MGA. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1955 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 695 kg more than 1955 MG MGA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 MG MGA. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 MG MGA. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1955 MG MGA has manual transmission. 1955 MG MGA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | 1955 MG MGA | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | MG |
| Model | S | MGA |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2390 mm |
