1983 Ford Orion vs. 1961 MG MGA
To start off, 1983 Ford Orion is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 MG MGA (106 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1983 Ford Orion. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 MG MGA weights approximately 25 kg more than 1983 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Orion, 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, 1961 MG MGA (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Orion. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1961 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Orion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Orion | 1961 MG MGA | |
| Make | Ford | MG |
| Model | Orion | MGA |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 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 | 875 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2390 mm |
