1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1956 MG MGA
To start off, 1981 Ford Fiesta is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,608 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Fiesta (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1956 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1956 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 MG MGA weights approximately 100 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Because 1956 MG MGA 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 1956 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1981 Ford Fiesta (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 1956 MG MGA | |
| Make | Ford | MG |
| Model | Fiesta | MGA |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 166 km/hour | 157 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2390 mm |
