1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 1959 MG MGA

To start off, 1983 Ford Fiesta is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 MG MGA (89 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 MG MGA weights approximately 65 kg more than 1983 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1959 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 1959 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1959 MG MGA (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1959 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.

Compare all specifications:

1983 Ford Fiesta 1959 MG MGA
Make Ford MG
Model Fiesta MGA
Year Released 1983 1959
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1608 cc 1798 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 53 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 95 Nm 149 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 835 kg 900 kg
Vehicle Length 3570 mm 3970 mm
Vehicle Width 1570 mm 1460 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2290 mm 2390 mm