1981 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1962 MG MGA
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 MG MGA (106 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 40 kg more than 1962 MG MGA.
Because 1962 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 1962 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1962 MG MGA (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1962 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Volkswagen Passat | 1962 MG MGA | |
Make | Volkswagen | MG |
Model | Passat | MGA |
Year Released | 1981 | 1962 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 100 Nm | 141 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1460 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2390 mm |